The Sunday Times looks at the latest news from the topmost car manufacturers around the world. The second part will appear in September’s issue.

Alfa Romeo

The changes at Alfa have been limited to extra drivetrain choices, with the Mito supermini now benefiting from the frugal and fun Twin Air two-cylinder engine, and the Giulietta compact hatch has been given the TCT twin-clutch automatic gearbox on the two available 170bhp engines.

The Alfa range is down to two models at the moment following the sale of the final 159s earlier this year, as the company takes time to recover from its market share losses during the recession. New models are on the way in due course.

Range: Mito, Giulietta
One to watch: Mito Twin Air has verve and swagger.

Aston Martin

This year has seen the introduction of the V12 Virage sporting GT. Another new but somehow familiar face can be seen in the resurrection of the Vanquish name. Built to replace the discontinued DBS, its harder looks mark it out in the range.

The exclusive and wildly expensive V12 Zagato has been capped at a limited edition of 205 models, but otherwise there have been few changes to the line-up. Six V8 and V12 Vantage model variants join the DB9, the four-door Rapide and the city-sized Cygnet.

Range: Vanquish, Virage, V8 Vantage, V8 Vantage Roadster, V8 Vantage S, V8 Vantage S Roadster, V12 Vantage, V12 Vantage Roadster, DB9, Rapide, Cygnet, V12 Zagato, One-77.
One to watch: Virage injects youth and dynamism into the GT class.

Audi

Waves have been made on the Audi front with the first diesel S model, in the shape of the SQ5; which uses an equally new, dual-turbo engine design to reduce lag and increase power.

The A6 Allroad has been reincarnated after prior models’ success. Using an adapted A6 Avant chassis, longer-travel suspension and bodywork protection, the Allroad is a fabulous all-rounder, and not just for farming types. The Q5 has also been updated with revised engines and tweaked styling.

On the sporty side, the S6, S7 and S8 have been re-released with updated V8 engines and the latest infotainment and safety gear. They’re faster and more advanced than ever.

Range: A1, A3, A3 Cabriolet, S3, S3 Sportback, RS3, A4, A4 Avant, S4, S4 Avant, A5, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sportback, RS 5, A6, A6 Avant, A6 Allroad, S6, S6 Avant, A7 Sportback, S7, A8, S8, Q3, Q5, SQ5, Q7, R8, R8 Spyder, R8 V10, R8 V10 Spyder, TT, TT Roadster, TT-S, TT-S Roadster, TT-RS, TT-RS Roadster.
One to watch: A6 Allroad is one of the best all-round cars you can buy.

BMW

With such an expansive range it’s no surprise that there’s always something changing at BMW. The latest additions include the four-door 6 Series Gran Coupé, which is as capable on twisting roads as it is on the motorway.

BMW’s larger cars have been left largely alone this year, having been redesigned towards the end of last year. The 5, 6 and 7 Series continue as they were for now, with the usual variations in body style.

Range: 1 Series, 1 Series Coupe, 1 Series Convertible, 3 Series, Active Hybrid 3, 3 Series Coupe, 3 Series Convertible, 3 Series Touring, 5 Series, Active Hybrid 5, 5 Series Touring, 5 Series Gran Turismo, 6 Series Convertible, 7 Series, Active Hybrid 7, M3 Coupe, M3 Saloon, M3 Convertible, M5, M5 Touring, M6, M6 Convertible, X5 M, X6 M, X1, X3, X5, X6, Z4.
One to watch: Active Hybrid 3 is powerful and refined.

Chevrolet

The excellent Cruze compact hatchback has been energised with the introduction of a low-CO2 diesel engine, broadening its appeal to the British public.

The Aveo is another impressive machine aimed at cost-conscious motorists. This latest version boasts impressive levels of fit, finish and refinement and is supported by a modest range of polished and economical engines.

Continuing the high value-for-money line-up, Chevrolet’s Captiva SUV and Orlando MPV also offer more equipment than their rivals for less money and should be on anybody’s shortlist.

Range: Spark, Aveo, Cruze, Captiva, Orlando.
One to watch: Diesel engine completes the Cruze’s list of attributes.

Chrysler

New this year is the revised 300C, completely redesigned from the ground up. Packed with kit, charm and a V6 diesel engine, it hopes to offer a real alternative to the established competition.

For many the company will always be famous for its Grand Voyager people carrier. This remains a staple of the range, but there’s also the Ypsilon compact hatch and Delta family hatch to help boost sales in more mainstream markets.

The former boasts rakish looks, a plush interior and borrows Fiat’s impressive two-cylinder TwinAir petrol engine among its powerplant choices. The larger Delta is more a rival for Ford’s Focus, and is visually stylish in a way that few rivals are in this fiercely competitive market sector.

Range: 300C, Grand Voyager, Ypsilon, Delta.
One to watch: The Ypsilon is a striking and capable urban machine.

Citroen

Citroen’s splurge of new models and updates last year has given way to a period of calm, where the only significant change is the revised C1, which now has a more efficient engine and modified styling.

The range offers something for everyone, with the C4 catering for young families, the C5 serving as an excellent cruiser, the DS3 Racing providing rally-car inspired thrills and the van-derived Berlingo Multispace and Nemo Multispace offering amazing MPV practicality in small, stylish packages.

The much-loved but little-bought C6 large saloon and C-Crosser SUV have both been discontinued, though, having played their part in the range for their full expected life cycles.

Range: C-Zero, C1, C3, C3 Picasso, DS3, DS4, C4 Hatchback, C4 Picasso, Grand C4 Picasso, C5, C5 Tourer, DS5, C-Crosser, Dispatch Combi, Berlingo Multispace, Nemo Multispace.
One to watch: C3 Picasso is a hidden gem of style and practicality.

Fiat

One of the main pillars in Fiat’s range, the Punto has dropped the ‘Evo’ tag and is just the Punto again. It’s been given two new engines in the shape of the Twin Air two-cylinder turbo petrol and the superb 1.3-litre MultiJet II diesel.

The Doblo has been given a welcome refresh, giving it a much greater sense of style than before.

News that the 500L is on the way soon is good for the company, but for now the Panda, Qubo and Bravo all present worthy options in the compact car segment.

Range: 500, 500C, Bravo, Doblo, Punto, Panda, Qubo.
One to watch: New small diesel engine makes the Punto even better.

Ford

There’s been a lot going on in the Focus camp over the last few months, with the amazing 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine changing the way people think about engine capacity and performance.

The new Focus ST has been launched to much critical acclaim as well, balancing enjoyment and efficiency better than ever. Also new is the B-Max, a small MPV to satisfy young families.

Elsewhere in the range things have been quieter of late, but the Fiesta continues to offer just about the best value in the supermini sector along with its famous driving dynamics. The Mondeo, Ka, S-Max, C-Max and Kuga have had updates in the recent past and continue to appeal.

Accessories have been announced for the Ranger pick-up, making it even more capable for working types.

Range: B-Max, C-Max, Fiesta, Focus, Focus Estate, Galaxy, Ka, Kuga, Mondeo, Mondeo Estate, S-Max, Ranger.
One to watch: Focus ST is a true hot hatch for the modern age.

Honda

This time round the resurgent Japanese manufacturer has revised the Insight hybrid, making it even more efficient.

The Civic continues to make waves in the compact hatchback segment, along with the technological marvel that is the Jazz Hybrid. Maintaining all the practicality and space of a normal Jazz, the world’s first hybrid supermini is a real gem.

A new CR-V is on the way soon so look out for brilliant offers on the outgoing model, which has been one of the best SUVs out there for years. The excellent Accord and sporty manual hybrid CR-Z carry on unchanged.

Range: Accord, Accord Tourer, Civic, CR-V, CR-Z, Jazz, Insight.
One to watch: Civic offers fantastic value and ability.

Hyundai

Hyundai has recently updated its i20 supermini, and it’s now among the best in the sector in terms of style and value for money. It deserves to be near the top of the shortlist for anyone considering a small car.

With the arrival of the saloon variant of the i40, many more are beginning to pop up on the roads. Then there are the ix35 and Santa Fe, offering affordable alternatives to the traditional SUV.

Offering similar value for money but within a more traditional family hatchback theme, the i30 model boasts recently revised trim levels and the option of stop-start engine tech for increased economy. It’s also available in practical estate form. Smaller still the i10 is looking good and going strong.

Range: i10, i20, ix20, i30, i30 Tourer, ix35, i40 Saloon, i40 Tourer, Santa Fe, i800, Veloster.
One to watch: The i30 is an extremely good all-rounder.

Infiniti

Earlier this year the FX SUV was revised, with the styling remaining mainly the same, but changes coming under the skin. It’s an excellent choice for the large SUV buyer, especially in light of Infiniti’s recent drives to provide a peerless buying experience.

The 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine remains, though, as it does in the EX and M ranges, providing more fuel economy, longer tank range and a more Europe-friendly option.

The M saloon has received a host of updates for 2013, adding to its already astonishing kit list and value for money. A fast and economical hybrid version is available at the top of the range.

On a smaller scale physically, the G series range continues to offer saloon, coupe and convertible options for buyers seeking an alternative to premium compact cars from the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes.

Range: EX, FX, G Convertible, G Coupe, G Saloon, M Saloon.
One to watch: M35h offers hybrid technology with a sporty edge.

Jaguar

Jaguar is rightfully quite pleased with itself of late, with the JD Power survey reporting very happy owners indeed. Two core ranges are unchanged, with the XK and XJ being left alone for the time being. The XF range has a new, lower-powered and cheaper 2.2-litre diesel model.

The big news for Jag is the announcement of a sleek XF Sportbrake estate, which is due to arrive within months. The XF range has been chiefly responsible for Jaguar’s reverse in fortunes and the Sportbrake version is sure to sell well.

Don’t forget the firm’s ‘R’ line of high-power options with ballistic performance and supreme luxury. They make hugely tempting alternatives to cars from BMW’s M Division, the Audi S and RS lines and Mercedes AMG.

Range: XF Saloon, XF Sportbrake, XJ, XK, XK Convertible.
One to watch: XF Sportbrake is beautiful and practical.

Jeep

Jeep continues to do well under its Fiat stewardship, with encouraging sales and a trio of models that attack the Jeep philosophy in very different ways.

The high-end Grand Cherokee boasts plenty of luxury features yet it’s not afraid of getting dirty. In diesel guise it’s a good all-rounder, too. The entry-level Compass is also no slouch offroad, although looking at its greater emphasis on style it’s clearly been designed to attract ‘soft-roader’ buyers looking for something equally good around town.

If, however, you want the best tool for the offroad job, it has to be the Wrangler. This stalwart of Jeep’s range remains the only thing that can give a Land Rover a run for its money.

Crucially, this latest iteration is more refined than a Land Rover and could easily serve as a daily driver.

Range: Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wrangler.
One to watch: Compass offers a stylish alternative compact SUV.

Kia

The new Cee’d is an important milestone in the history of Kia, marking the point where it’s competing on a completely level footing with the likes of Ford and Vauxhall – and sells well. The all-new platform contains lots of kit and makes a fine all-rounder.

The smaller Rio is mature beyond its years, with its 1.1-litre diesel engine still giving it the lowest CO2 figure of any car in the country. Build quality is excellent, it looks great and it gives a big-car feel over and above its price tag.

Elsewhere in the equally sharply-styled Kia range, a new Carens will be unveiled fully in September. The MPV is set to take on a much sleeker look, along with lots of technology and advanced safety equipment.

Slightly smaller is the Venga mini-MPV, with a very spacious interior especially given the modest price tag. The Sportage SUV is now available with a new range-topping high-power diesel in conjunction with oodles of luxury touches.

At the larger end of the scale the Sorento is unchanged for now, boasting improved exterior styling and sharper on-road performance. The aging but still worthy Sedona will be due for replacement soon so look out for good deals.

Range: Optima, Carens, Cee’d, Cee’d SW, Pro_Cee’d, Picanto, Rio, Sedona, Sorento, Soul, Sportage, Venga.
One to watch: New Cee’d is a brilliant car at a good price.

Land Rover

Although the six core Land Rover and Range Rover models are the same as when the registration plates ticked over to ‘12’, the main emphasis has still been on the lingering impact of the Evoque, with a convertible concept version having been seen on the motor show circuit.

Not that the rest of the range has been neglected, as all models benefitted from 2012 model-year upgrades that they continue to enjoy. The Freelander 2’s efficient diesel engine still comes with a choice of two power outputs, while the first two-wheel drive vehicle to come from Land Rover, combined with stop-start technology, results in some impressive fuel consumption figures.

The Range Rover and Discovery 4-based Range Rover Sport remain the last word in SUV luxury, the former with with a simple range of three models and two engines. The TDV8 is the most popular in Britain, but a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 is also on offer. The Range Rover Sport maintains its popular V6 diesel powerplant.

The Land Rover Discovery 4 is one of the finest all-round vehicles in the world, while the Defender is an ever-present workhorse that even in its twilight years retains a loyal following.

Range: Defender, Discovery 4, Evoque, Freelander 2, Range Rover, Range Rover Sport.
One to watch: Evoque platform promises many future developments.

Lexus

Lexus has taken a bold new direction with the latest GS, making it much sharper-looking and better dynamically. Available with either a smooth six-cylinder petrol engine or a more powerful hybrid system, the GS is now an entirely different and more exciting proposition. F Sport trim is new to the model, adding extra visual drama and chassis improvements under the skin.

The IS saloon also features F-Sport trim, taking inspiration from the high-power IS-F V8 alongside a Sport version of the diesel-engined variant. A new diesel variant adds greater thrift without harming the driving experience. The IS’s improvements earlier in the year still stand and help make a tempting compact saloon proposition.

Huge updates for the LS limousine have been confirmed for the near future, following the styling trend set by the CT200h and the new GS. More comfort and more luxury are givens, but the more aggressively-styled LS will also have better driving dynamics.

The RX450h retains its status as the SUV of choice for environmentally conscious families while the IS250C convertible is a stylish, mature and refined alternative to convertible options in the executive sector.

As the ultimate expression of the Lexus philosophy the LFA supercar did its job, but is no longer available.

Range: CT, IS, IS Convertible, GS, LS, RX
One to watch: The new GS makes a fine cruiser.

Mazda

Top of the Mazda tree at the moment is the new CX-5 SUV, the first car to showcase SkyActiv technology. With a focus on high-efficiency petrol and diesel engines it is the first in a series of cars that Mazda hopes will give them the edge with eco-conscious buyers.

The popular 3 hatchback has also undergone a subtle but comprehensive makeover in recent months. A tidier design inside and out, improved aerodynamics and tweaked mechanicals reduce fuel consumption and sharpen the driving experience.

The recently-refreshed Mazda 5 has brought extra style and practicality to the MPV sector, as it has a distinctive exterior design with the bonus of twin sliding rear doors. The latest 1.6-litre diesel engine also offers highly impressive economy and emissions for a car in this area of the market.

The Mazda 6, available in saloon and estate form, is large, comfortable and well suited to business or family use and has also benefitted from tweaks to lower emissions. Dealers are offering bargains as the model’s replacement draws near.

A strong range of petrol and diesel engines is standard across the Mazda line-up, including the CX-7 crossover model which was originally only available with a large petrol unit. Now equipped with a more sensible 2.2-litre diesel, it’s far better suited to the UK market.

The iconic MX-5 is the roadster of choice for just about anyone who’s driven one, and is available with folding hard- and soft-tops as well as a choice of engines and a manual or automatic transmission.

Range: 2, 3, 5, 6, MX-5, CX-7
One to watcH: CX-5 could shake up the SUV segment.

Mercedes-Benz

It’s been as busy as ever at Mercedes-Benz with a raft of new models and the promise of more to come.

First up is the all-new A-Class which is due to appear later in 2012. Marking a big step forward from the old car it’s aimed squarely at premium hatchback buyers and promises a genuine small-car Mercedes feel, a better driving experience and a high quality cabin.

Joining the desirable SLK range is the new SLK55 AMG with a characterful V8 engine and performance to thrill.

Also new to the range is the SL sports car, with a lightweight aluminium body and improved powerplants – not least in the superb high-performance SL63 AMG which uses turbocharged power to offer even more pace yet better economy.

The C-Class saloon range remains one of the most comprehensive on the market, with saloon, coupe and estate versions, a broad choice of specification and engines to suit a variety of needs and budgets.

The E-Class range, including coupe, cabriolet and saloon has been bolstered by the introduction of the E300 BlueTec Hybird model, the first to come from Mercedes and one that delivers a remarkable blend of comfort, performance and economy.

The CLS four-door coupe has a unique style and a vast range of engines from the super-frugal diesel to the powerhouse AMG models, yet remains practical and usable despite the curvaceous styling.

The stunning SLS supercar has also been joined by a Roadster version which sacrifices the stunning gullwing doors for open-roof thrills.

Executive models remain a Mercedes-Benz forte, and there is no shortage of high-quality options to choose from whether you’re seeking a large saloon in the form of the S-Class or the giant GL-Class SUV.

The R-Class has gained some detail tweaks while the M-Class range has been boosted further with the announcement of a new AMG model.

Range: A, B, C, CL, CLS, E, G, GL, M, R, S, SL, SLK, SLS.
One to watch: New A-Class is a big step forward as a smaller Mercedes.

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