THE RIVALS

BMW 116d Sport

More special to drive, but not as special on the inside. Less refined that the Mercedes. £26,375

Volkswagen Golf GT 1.6 TDI

Still the benchmark for quality hatchbacks. Less opulent inside but a great car to own. £25,370

Audi A3 Sport 1.6 TDI

High-quality hatchback that does the job, but doesn’t feel as sophisticated as the new Merc. £25,995