VERDICT

The Corolla has the most comprehensive safety tech, it’s cheap to run and is finally fun to drive. But it’s let down by short warranty, high price and compromised cabin space. The Mazda is a sharp drive and comes with more mod-cons but its compact cabin, road noise and service costs weigh against it. By far the most luxurious and competent, the Golf is roomiest to boot. The safety must-haves are covered and more advanced aids are available for a small extra cost.