Best automatics
Our top five easy-to-drive buys across a range of classes
Volkswagen Polo DSG Years: 2014 to date Best engine: 1.2-litre 4cyl petrol, 89bhp Insurance group: 11 Economy/co2: 60.1mpg/109g/km
WHY? Yes, we acknowledge that there are more exciting and talented models in this top-five list, but if you want a vehicle equipped with an automatic gearbox in which to do the daily commute, Volkswagen’s Polo DSG is all the car you’re ever likely to need. The diminutive supermini likes to think big with its grown-up cabin and refined driving experience, and the slick seven-speed dual-clutch transmission helps to deliver quick shifts and effortless performance. You can even change gear manually via the steering wheel-mounted paddles if you’re searching for a little bit of extra involvement. From £15,975 (new)
Jaguar F-pace eight-speed automatic Years: 2016 to date Best engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl diesel, 178bhp Insurance group: 27 Economy/co2: 57.4mpg/134g/km
WHY? There are many reasons why the Jaguar F-pace is our reigning Car of the Year – including stylish looks, a great drive and lots of tech – but the slick auto box is another feather in its cap. The Zf-sourced eight-speeder has a great reputation in the industry, and Jaguar has combined it to great effect with the 2.0-litre diesel to allow super-smooth changes and quick reaction times. From £37,030 (new)
BMW 3 Series auto Years: 2012 to date Best engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl diesel, 187bhp Insurance group: 31 Economy/co2: 67.3mpg/111g/km
WHY? Given BMW’S reputation for building the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’, you’d have thought we’d be recommending a 3 Series with a manual box. But while it’s engaging, it’s a bit notchy, so the optional ZF eight-speed auto is the better choice. Not only is it as smooth and subtle in town as the best torque converters, it’s also as quick and responsive as the best dual-clutch units. From £25,740 (new)
Porsche 911 PDK Years: 2016 to date Best engine: 3.0-litre 6cyl petrol, 414bhp Insurance group: 48 Economy/co2: 32.5mpg/199g/km
WHY? Porsche’s latest 911 is still the ultimate all-round sports car, and part of its appeal is just how easy it is to live with given its performance. The brand’s dual-clutch auto is one of the fastest shifters around, with rapid-fire changes in manual mode and seamless momentum when left to its own devices. The only downside is that Porsche cheekily charges extra for manual shift paddles. From £87,335 (new)
SEAT Leon DSG Years: 2013 to date Best engine: 1.2-litre 4cyl petrol, 108bhp Insurance group: 12 Economy/co2: 58mpg/112g/km
WHY? As it is in the less powerful VW Polo, the DSG gearbox is an excellent fit for the 1.2-litre TSI Leon. The SEAT is one of our favourite family hatches, and uses the latest seven-speed unit, offering slick and responsive performance. It’s available across several models in the range, but it works best with this engine, providing a good balance between smoothness and fun. From £18,950 (new)