JUST ANNOUNCED
Nissan Qashqai+2

Price £15,500-£22,700 approx

On sale October 2008

What’s different? A little more than a year after launching its Qashqai crossover, Nissan has announced the seven-seater Qashqai+2. As the name suggests, it’s a stretched version, with 135mm added to the wheelbase to allow the addition of two folding seats in a third row. The roofline has also been altered, increasing overall height by 38mm to give more headroom

Why should I care? The Qashqai is a stylish-looking and practical car that combines a high seating position with good driving dynamics – and optional four-wheel drive. The only serious complaint we had about the interior was its lack of rear space and seating versatility, and if that’s also an issue for some buyers, there’s now an answer in the guise of the Qashqai+2

Also consider
Chrysler Voyager 2.4 SE £18,855
Toyota Verso 1.8 VVT-i T2 £15,805
Peugeot 4007 SE 2.2 HDi £22,995

IN THE SHOWROOM
Hyundai Coupé TSIII

Price £19,595

On sale Now

What’s different? When the latest-generation Hyundai Coupé went on sale, some commentators said it looked more than a little like a Ferrari 456 – it was certainly the best-looking car Hyundai had ever produced. Now this limited-edition model, with its gorgeous anthracite alloys, quad exhausts and convincing rear spoiler, further ups the visual ante

Why should I care? This isn’t just a visual sexing-up: the regular Coupé has a bit too much bodyroll through the corners, but the TSIII should be a better handler thanks to lowered suspension and Eibach sport springs. The interior has some nice touches too, such as quilted leather upholstery, heated front seats and an iPod-compatible stereo

Also consider
Honda Civic Type S GT £17,190
Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupé 2.0 £19,600
Vauxhall Astra 2.0 16v Turbo VXR £19,720