Sometimes it's the simplest ideas that are the best - as the Mazda MX-5 has shown countless times. Occasionally, however, you need to move with the times and embrace new technology - and that's exactly what Mazda has done with the MX-5 RC.

The off-road king is back! After years of being beaten at its own game, the Freelander has returned to the top of the class with a neatly designed and beautifully executed second-generation car. The 4x4 recreational market has evolved considerably since the Freelander's debut nearly 10 years ago, and the good news for potential buyers is that the new version moves the game on again

Although the first-generation Citroen Picasso was a big hit with buyers, the Xsara-based MPV was some way from being the best offering on the market. However, all that changed with the arrival of the latest C4-based version, which has immediately become the benchmark for the sector.

The fact that the first-generation Audi TT won or was shortlisted for this award five years in a row is a tribute to the company's vision and sense of style. So replacing it was a tough mission - especially when you're competing in a sector where looks and fashion are as important as performance and handling

Replacing a legend is never easy - but Honda has done just that with the amazing Civic Type R. With competition from the likes of Ford, Vauxhall and Renault, the firm couldn't have picked a tougher time to introduce its second-generation model. The fact that it has done so with a machine that betters the original in every department is a tribute to the Japanese company's engineering vision

From zero to hero in 12 months - that's the brilliant new Vauxhall Corsa. Although its predecessor was a consistent winner in the supermini sales charts - regularly beating Ford's Fiesta to the top spot - in terms of design and dynamics, the Corsa was way off the pace.

The mighty Mondeo is back - and has gone straight to the top of the class. After years in the shadow of the ultra-refined Volkswagen Passat, Ford's family favourite has been completely reinvented with a new look, bigger cabin and an even more polished driving experience.

Its looks divide opinion, but the French hatch has always been a strong buy. We pick our favourite

TV's Mike Brewer likes his money to go a long way - so he takes his pick from two super-sized seven-seat MPVs

The Peugeot 307 arrived in a blaze of publicity six years ago. Its spacious interior, massive choice of engines, strong dynamics and good safety rating made it a hit with new car buyers. However, with its all-new replacement, the 308, arriving in dealers this September, how does it rate for second-hand buyers?