13: Toyota C-HR – Remarkably stylish entry from the Japanese brand

That Toyota had been without a true rival to the Nissan Qashqai was starting to look a touch embarrassing, not least given that Toyota had all-but invented the 'leisure' 4x4 market with the original RAV4.

We had been expecting something relatively simple, essentially a taller, more practical Auris. What we got was something quite, quite different. Rather than a head-on Qahsqai clone, the C-HR is slightly smaller, rather a lot sportier, and very much more stylish.

The styling is almost OTT by Toyota’s normal standards, while the cabin is good enough to bear comparison with Lexus and other luxury brands (even if it is a little small in the back, and a lottle small in the boot).

It’s not quick (neither the 1.2 D4-T turbo petrol nor the 1.8 Hybrid are anywhere near quick) but very satisfying to drive, with sharp steering and a well-balanced chassis. If any other car maker had made this, we’d call it desirable. From Toyota, it’s positively remarkable, if a touch pricey.