89. SUBARU XV

THE most obvious failing of the Nissan Qashqai and similar SUVS is that they are barely any better off road than a regular hatchback. There’s no such danger with the Subaru XV, a small SUV that is capable when the going gets tough, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system.

Sadly, you pay for this ability because prices are high compared with front-wheel-drive rivals’. It’s an issue that becomes even more problematic when you factor in the XV’S cheap interior and unsettled ride. Price range: £22,495-£27,495 Our pick: 2.0D SE (£24,495) Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl diesel, 148bhp Transmission: 6-spd manual, permanent 4x4 Top speed: 123mph Economy: 52.3mpg CO2: 141g/km