Opel/Vauxhall Insignia B Country Tourer

The second generation Opel/Vauxhall Insignia has been setting the standards to the medium-sized car market with its design, interior, performance, and technology, and because having the saloon and wagon is not enough, an SUV variant of the new Insignia, dubbed the Country Tourer, completes the range and this changes everything we want to know about sport utility wagons that was headlined by the likes of Subaru Outback and Volvo's Cross Country range.

2018 Opel Insignia Country Tourer

2018 Vauxhall Insignia Country Tourer

With SUVs becoming the dominant breed than any other car in the world, it's no secret why the new-generation Insignia included the sport utility wagon variant known as the Country Tourer to cater the demands of drivers want to get the most out of their lives, from their comfort zone to the outside world. At first glance, the Country Tourer is based on the Sport Tourer but it has been given all-round black protective cladding and silver front and rear skid plates, not to mention the added ground clearance to make it look rugged for some point. On the inside, it was given a manly black and brown color tone to the familiar interior of the range and while it all works just like any other Insignia in the range, you can fill up to 1,665 liters of cargo space with everything to your heart's content, meaning there's plenty of time to fill for your very hectic schedule ahead. Plus, it even comes with a nifty feature that can open the back of the car when your hands are full, just like a Ford, making it one of the most convenient sport utility wagons ever made. A Subaru Outback doesn't have that., you know.

2018 Opel Insignia Country Tourer interior

2018 Vauxhall Insignia Country Tourer interior

The new Country Tourer is offered with a choice of 1.5L DI Turbo, 2.0 DI Turbo, and a 2.0L Diesel engine. Depending on the variant, it can be mated with a choice of either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed gearbox. For now, the most powerful version is the 2.0 DI Turbo with the 260PS of power output that can get them from 0-100kph in 7.7 seconds and onwards to 242kph, faster than the Subaru Outback. For those who want efficiency should go for the 2.0L diesel variant with combined fuel efficiency of 5.5L/100km. There's so much to choose from this rugged Insignia.

In front-wheel drive alone, the Insignia wasn't half bad for an estate of this caliber and it feels nicer to drive and easy to live with it, although being exciting is not one of the Country Tourer's agenda. Add a 4x4 on it and the result is a sport utility wagon that can match the driving characteristics of the Subaru Outback and you can take it anytime, anywhere, no matter what today's weather conditions going to be in Mainland Europe. Whether you can take it on the Matterhorn or to a historic spot across Europe, the Country Tourer really gets the job done in a rather amusing way, something that the Outback couldn't done because of its limits.

Because this was based on the Insignia range, the Country Tourer features a wide range of tech and safety features such as the innovative adaptive IntelliLux LED matrix light, head up display, the 360° surround view camera, adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking, Lane Keep Assist with automated steering correction and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. It's everything to keep the Country Tourer prepared for the worst case scenarios ahead, although it almost works like a Volvo if you ask them.

The new Country Tourer starts at 34,885 Euros (25,645 GBP) plus on road costs so it maybe more expensive than the Subaru Outback, you can afford one than the Volvo V60 Cross Country, and while it's almost as good as that Volvo I've mentioned, the new Country Tourer can outperform the Outback in terms of driving feel, styling, and practicality. The Country Tourer is set to be a global icon because for the first time, it will be sold in the US as the new Buick Regal TourX and in Australia as the Holden Commodore Tourer.

Photo: Opel/Vauxhall

Forza Motorsport 7: My first ride

Yes, baby, I'm back in Forza Motorsport for their seventh and ultimate installment to date and while some of you got their sweet first ride of the game, my first FM7 ride is not what you call exciting, a tad above average if you may. So, in the spirit of first impression, I will share you which car I began with; it's the Corsa E VXR.



Need a refresher? The Opel/Vauxhall Corsa E OPC/VXR was unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show and it is known to be the ultra-powerful small hot-hatch in the OPC/VXR lineup that is less expensive than its competitors with its £17,995 on-the-road pricing.

Under the hood, this hot Corsa is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine that produces 205PS of power output, 245Nm of torque, and mated exclusively with a second-generation six-speed transmission with a short, fluid gear change. It is capable of going 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 143mph - quicker than the outgoing car it replaces.

For this model, they've enlisted damper-supplier, Koni, to develop the Frequency Selective Damping which  allows damping forces to adapt to the car's movements, balancing body control and ride quality depending on the speed.

Customers can opt in for the optional Performance Package which comes with a Drexler limited-slip differential, larger 330mm-diameter Brembo front brake discs, 18-inch alloy wheels with super sticky Michelin Pilot Supersport tyres and enhanced FSD damper settings.



Once a tater tot that can humiliate a supercar in the parking lot, the Corsa VXR is a small wonder that can pull different tricks from its sleeves but when I put it on the track, it's hard to get around through the corners even though this VXR comes with a Performance Package that unleashes its full potential of the smallest VXR hatch ever made. It maybe slower on the straights, it may be harsher on the bends, but when it comes to enjoying your first race, the Corsa VXR always leave first-timers a first impression they will never forget since they chose on from the very beginning.



After having my first impression with the Corsa VXR, I'd decided to see how it fares on a real track where everything comes full circle with this pocket rocket. How about putting it on the Indy Circuit layout of Brands Hatch? That will make it the perfect breeding ground for this small VXR hatch. So, who wants to see it go round Brands Hatch?



Well, that handling left me with a nasty bruise in my arms, but this is a great start for me because now that I'm back in driving real cars in real tracks, Forza Motorsport 7 has a lot of opportunities waiting for me and this is just the beginning.

Opel Ampera-e

As Europe is pushing towards an electrified future, more and more carmakers are prepping themselves by launching electric vehicles throughout the decade as their decisive ban on petrol and diesel powered vehicles within the next few decades is Europe's idea of a straight path towards a cleaner future. One such example is this car is known as the Ampera-e from Opel, an electric hatchback pinpoints Europe's electric future or is that what I think it is...

2018 Opel Ampera-e

2018 Opel Ampera-e

It maybe Europe's electric future but the way you observe it, the Ampera-e is basically a European version of the Chevrolet Bolt EV, meaning what's underneath behind the Opel badge is an American car with an electric powertrain that says "Hey Tesla, I'm your biggest fan?" and what's more about the Euro-American compact car is that while this car is sold in a majority of European markets, Great Britain is not on their list and you probably know why they didn't sell it as a Vauxhall. It's BREXIT to blame this case and it's odd despite the fact that it travelled from Piccadilly to Paris in one charge for a marketing ploy, Opel's reluctant to sell it in Britain as of right now due to worsening post-BREXIT conditions and I understand that. With Opel now owned by Peugeot, I'm sure they'll come up with the strategy in the hopes that Opels and Vauxhalls are sold as one in today's Europe, but right now, time to face reality.

2018 Opel Ampera-e interior

If you're familiar with how the Chevrolet Bolt EV looks on the outside and the inside, the same thing goes to the Ampera-e from Opel, just. The Bolt EV carries the concept car looks from the very beginning while the interior is more tech-savvy indeed for the millennials of the road. This is the same thing goes to the Ampera-e, and apart from the well-sculpted exterior and its high-tech interior, the space and legroom is just right enough to accommodate just about everyone.

2018 Opel Ampera-e

What about performance? Because this is sourced from the "fast food nation" as we know it, the Ampera-e's specifications are almost the same as the Bolt EV's. The electric motor that powers it generates a modest 150kW (204PS) of power output and 360Nm of torque. It does about 0-100kph in 7.3 seconds and top speed of 150kph, about 30kph slower than every known Japanese car on the road. Because being an electric car, you can get away from a set of lights quicker than the next car because there's no wheelspin start to worry about and who says electric cars are dull? Electric cars are smart, electric cars are cool, electric cars are great as long as you're not taking it for granted. Like the Bolt EV, the Ampera-e comes with Regen on Demand, which allows the driver to slow it down without using the actual brake pedal with just a shift of a paddle, and a One-Pedal Driving feature that helps the driver transfer energy to the battery in many ways. With such energy-efficient features, it's no wonder the Ampera-e has an full electric range of around 380km under WLTP regulations or 520km based on NEDC calculations.

Energy-wise, the Ampera-e also comes with a wide variety of safety tech such as  Lane Departure Warning, Rear Camera Mirror, Surround Vision, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, and Forward Collision Alert, among many other features that makes the electric compact ready for the road ahead.

The Opel Ampera-e is priced at 39,330 Euros, which sounds too much for a compact car of that size, but because of such limited availability in Europe, better have one while you still can because when they're out, they're really out.

With the Ampera-e, Opel joins the electric revolution as Europe prepares for a fossil fuel-free continent for years to come and despite its American connection, the Ampera-e is all about being prepared for the not-too-distant future with its future-ready economy, performance, and tech, that will accommodate today's drivers.

Photo: Opel

Opel/Vauxhall Crossland X

Opel and Vauxhall are now part of Groupe PSA, the parent company of Peugeot, Citroen, and DS Automobiles. What does it mean? It's the end of the road as we know it for General Motors in Europe and "change is coming" for the used-to-be Euro subsidiary of the General because they will be providing all the R&D provided by PSA in their vehicles. One such example is the all-new crossover known as the Crossland X and it's time to examine what's what.

2018 Opel Crossland X

2018 Vauxhall Crossland X

Known by many as the replacement to the Meriva MPV because, ahem, crossovers prevail over MPVs and minivans alike in the automobile race, the new Crossland X hints to everyone the "Change Is Coming" scenario from Opel-Vauxhall following their departure from General Motors and their arrival to Groupe PSA. Why? With a little sense of cognitive cross-examination, you will examine what's underneath the new Crossland X. It's basically a Peugeot 2008 underneath, meaning it's a clear sign that "change is coming" for the car makers who used to belong with the General.

First off, what's it look like on the outside? For a crossover that bears the same size as the 2008, the Crossland X incorporates the signature front grille as seen on its big brother, the Mokka X, as well as the new Insignia range, while the side view looks very stylish, yet conspicuously familiar, and the rear view looks like a Nissan SUV that used to live in its home market before it left.

2018 Opel Crossland X interior

2018 Vauxhall Crossland X interior

On the inside, the Crossland X, despite the 2008 connection, looks pretty much as roomier as the Meriva it replaces. Good rear space as well. On the gadgetry side, the Crossland X features smartphone connectivity good enough to be Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible so your sat-nav will behave just like smartphones, only different. With so much good stuff around here, the Crossland X is just pretty much like the one your sis drove during the after-hours, only different.

2018 Opel Crossland X

2018 Vauxhall Crossland X

Even though the Crossland X looks like an SUV, it still behaves like an MPV indeed and because of the 2008 connection, the Crossland X is powered with a choice of a 1.2L, 1.2L turbo, and a 1.6L diesel engine, all sourced from Groupe PSA. The most powerful version will be the 1.2L Turbo with 130PS of power and 230Nm of torque and with the 6-speed manual, it does 0-100kph in 9.1 seconds and onwards to 206kph, quicker than those Japanese compact MPVs it may come across on the highway. The most fuel-efficient, meanwhile, is the one with the 1.6L ecoTEC diesel variant mated to a 6-speed manual with 3.8L/100km of combined fuel economy.

Handling-wise, the Crossland X no longer feels like a Chevrolet Orlando, which is no longer on European roads for quite some time now, and because it's now underpinning the same platform as the Peugeot 2008, it has a French flair to its driving character. It no longer has that sauerkraut feeling but rather a souffle when you taste its handling traits. On a normal work day, the Crossland X feels not so bad to drive but on your day off with the kids, this is where the Crossland X gets even more challenging and because this is a five-seater crossover, the biggest threat of all is the invasion of the child seats on the second-row seats and therefore, not a great choice for a family mover so the Crossland X should be better off as an after-hours car to drive with your mates or use it to fetch other people when you got joined to a certain ride-hailing company as a driver, as long it's not UBER.

To get the Crossland X ready on the road ahead, it comes with a wide array of driver aids such as Adaptive Forward Lighting, a head-up display, 180-degree Panoramic Rear View Camera, Advanced Park Assist, Forward Collision Alert with pedestrian detection and Automatic Emergency Braking, Driver Drowsiness System, Lane Keep Assist, Speed Sign Recognition, and Side Blind Spot Alert.

The price? The Crossland X starts at 16,850 Euros (£17,755), which sounds more affordable than the Peugeot 2008 it's based upon, making it a great value for money in a world dominated by crossovers like this. Although the Crossland X is an ideal alternative to MPVs, it's not an ideal measure as a family car due to its five-seater capacity and when child seats raided the entire second-row seats, it's your loss. As a city car to drive with your mates, it feels good and on a day-to-day basis, the Crossland X is a revelation. In fact, this is a revelation to Opel/Vauxhall's change following its acquisition by Groupe PSA from General Motors and now that they're under French control, expect the best and worst to come in the future of Opel/Vauxhall.

Photo: Opel/Vauxhall

Opel/Vauxhall Insignia B Grand Sport and Sports Tourer

The Insignia, a favorite among company car drivers and fleet decision makers across Europe, is now on its second generation and it's even more promising than ever thanks to its new look, new interior, new tech, new dynamics, and new engine choices, setting the new gold standard for midsize cars in this ever-changing landscape. So, what's new about the Insignia B range?

2018 Opel Insignia

2018 Vauxhall Insignia

2018 Vauxhall Insignia

The all-new Opel/Vauxhall Insignia range sets the new standards in the executive midsize car market by promising new and exciting features way unheard for most midsize saloons in the market and it promises world-class quality ready for the world's toughest challenges, whatever lay ahead. There are now two styles to choose from such as the Grand Sport fastback and the Sport Tourer and wherever you live, you can see one of these worldwide as either a Buick Regal or Holden Commodore, wait what? 

The new Insignia is the new Commodore in the Aussie market? Sadly, it is and because of Australia stopped making cars at the late quarter of this year, Australians will be getting the new Insignia as their new Holden NG Commodore next year and what does it mean? It's the end of Aussie muscle as we know it but let's not lament on the first-ever front-wheel drive Commodore for the Australian roads. We're talking about Insignia for the European people and in terms of design, there is a high possibility that some people may easily mistake it for a Mazda Atenza because by the looks of it, the new Insignia does look like an Atenza by all means necessary. Because the current Mazda Atenza is a good-looking midsize saloon to look at it, so is the new Insignia and mistaken identity aside, it's still very pleasant to look at one of these on the road and it's now easier to refuel because they have to ditch the old twist-off cap so drivers can refuel it quicker, easier, and without the spills.

2018 Opel Insignia interior

The inside looks rather similar to the outgoing model but because it now runs on a new platform that was used on today's Chevrolet Malibu, it's now surprisingly spacious than before so people at the back can get themselves accommodated and as for boot space, the trunk volume of 490 to 1,450 litres makes it enough to accommodate most of your grocery shopping stuff of the day as well as some stuff your grandma needs such as a walker or a wheelchair. In the Sports Tourer, meanwhile, it's been given more convenient ways to like about its boot space that can accommodate up to 1,665 litres such as the special tailgate that can be opened at the lift of your foot in case your hands are full. Because of such generous space, both the Grand Sport and the Sport Tourer are very accommodating indeed.

Regarding the tech word, both the Insignia Grand Sport and Sport Tourer now come with IntelliLink system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility so no matter your smartphone, these tech saves you more than just distracted driving and for occupants who are so busy doing stuff on their mobile phones, OnStar's 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot is ready for these kinds of people who want to do silly status updates on social media sites. Convenient, isn't it?

2018 Opel Insignia

2018 Opel Insignia

In terms of handling, the new Insignia, apart from its Malibu-derived platform, feels very above average for midsize saloon, in fact it is pretty good indeed for a car made for company car drivers and fleet decision makers but there's a real kicker to this new Insignia because later on, a 4x4 variant with the Torque Vectoring will make the new Insignia range very convincing for a company car because with torque vectoring on a 4x4 Insignia, you might almost have the same driving impression as the Ford Focus RS and that makes it from pretty good to very good if you got the chance to sample its clever four-wheel drive powertrain that works like a Ford Focus RS in every tangible way. Yes, please.

The choice of engines at launch comes with a 1.5L DI Turbo and a 1.5L ECOTEC DI Turbo but later on, a 2.0L turbo, 1.6L diesel (with or without ECOTEC), and a 2.0L diesel may follow, and depending on the choice of engines, they can be mated with either a 6-speed AT, MT, or even an 8-speed AT at a later date. Most of the engines are made out of aluminum and because these engines are very light indeed, they are contributed to such better fuel efficiency fit for today's roads. It may not be much to satisfy your driving style but they're very decent enough for a midsize car like this.

To keep the new Insignia well-suited for today's driving conditions, it's been given a host of safety features such as a brand new 360-degree camera, Rear View Camera, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Advanced Park Assist, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Following Distance Indication, Forward Collision Alert, Traffic Sign Assist, and a wide range of radar and camera-based automatic assistance for a safe driving feel that will satisfy most of health and safety standards.

Should you buy one? The new Insignia starts from 25,940 Euros (17,185 GBP) for the Grand Sport fastback while the Sports Tourer costs 26,940 Euros (18,685 GBP). That sounds like great value for money for a pretty good executive saloon fit enough to become the ideal car for company car drivers and fleet decision makers but the new Insignia is more than just being a company car, it's an ideal family car fit for day-to-day use and it's starting to gain shape with all these new features but demonstrating its world-class capabilities is yet to be seen but I'm sure that for the rest of the world, it feels fine for a midsize saloon of this caliber but for the Australians getting one next year as the new Holden Commodore, that's going to be a very different story that should be taken very seriously.

Photo: Opel/Vauxhall

Forza Horizon 3: The new Corsa VXR

If you are enjoying the all-new Vauxhall Corsa VXR, which is part of the Forza Horizon 3 Playseat Car Pack, you are noticing that why they made an ultra-powerful hot hatch in the first place that will beat supercars in the race to the nearest parking lot and because of its compact sizing, squeezing through the turns that supercars are having a hard time to deal with is not too shabby and the VXR always saves the day.



So, the Vauxhall Corsa VXR, what is it then? This ultra-powerful hot-hatch sets a new standard for small and fast hatchbacks and because it's powered by a 1.6L turbocharged engine producing 205PS of power and 245Nm of torque while mated to a manual gearbox, it does 0-60mph in six and a half seconds and a top speed of 143mph, faster than the previous model it replaces. Aside from this performance, the Corsa VXR comes with Frequency Selective Damping, developed by Koni, to maintain body control during high speeds and ride quality during low speeds while delivering an even more responsive steering. With the Performance Package, it comes with a Drexler LSD, larger-diameter Brembo front brake discs, 18-inch alloys, and a recalibrated FSD damper settings.



Despite being small in size, its dynamics should not be underestimated and for the case of the Corsa VXR, you'll never know what sort of tricks will this hatchback pull off and because being a hot hatch, you can have the same kind of thrill that you experienced from a supercar while delivering accessible dynamics fit for all kinds of drivers. If you were either experienced or inexperienced, driving a hot hatch like this one is like a good starting point to understand the twists and turns the Land Down Under has to offer and for a car with such accessible dynamics, you don't have to prove a thing to show how much of a driver you really are.

Because of such dynamics that made me impressed by the VXR, let's see how much of a hot hatch the Corsa VXR is and to do that, let's drive this car somewhere to the Outback to challenge against those tater tots and tiaras in waiting but first...







Ladies and gentlemen, Ako Saotome...isn't here today. That's just a design I made just for this and for a tater tot of this size, that just suits it rather well in a game where the Corsa VXR takes on the likes of Clios, Fiestas, and 500s. Well, the one with the 500 Abarth is what bugged me the most because when the Corsa VXR takes on the most hardcore 500 of all, the Abarth 695, things get even more dirtier than dumpster diving in the rain, but seeing this as an opportunity to demonstrate the Corsa VXR's dynamics, time to get the ball running and see what happens.





That was a close call but it's proof that the Corsa VXR is one of the most enjoyable hot hatch to drive to date and with such dynamics courtesy of the Performance Package provided and this car as well as some added charms I done to this little tyke, I think I may have found my favorite hot hatch to drive over and over again...or is it? I'm not sure but let's keep driving the VXR before I passed out from boredom as long as this special something I made for this keeps me company. Until then, the journey continues...

Buick Cascada and Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Convertible

We have two guests who are either late to the party or came here for the very first time. One is somewhat Euro-American and the other is quintessentially British on the other side. So, let's meet up with the open-top slowpokes who came to the open-top party too late or too early.

2016 Buick Cascada

First, let's meet with the latecomer known as the Buick Cascada. Well, basically this is imported from Europe's Opel division and Australians can expect this as a Holden sometime. Anyway, when the Euro-sourced Cascada arrived in America, it seems that its welcoming party got cancelled. VW's Eos and Golf Cabriolet are long dead as are Chrysler's old 200 Convertible. Which means, this car is running unopposed you can't even compare this one to a Mazda Roadster because...that's too cheeky.

Anyway, while Buick's open-top newcomer came here on its own free will, let's get some answers while this car catches some fresh air. Like its European equivalent, the Cascada has the same underpinning as the Verano, meaning that its got some clever Euro-tuned dynamics for a sporty handling that gets the driver into grooves. Under the hood?a 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine generating 200HP of power and 206lb-ft of torque while delivering an EPA-estimated Fuel Economy Highway of 27MPG. Of course, it's mated with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Other features? Well, this open-top Buick comes with a host of tech such as Buick Intellilink, rear park assist, automatic headlamps, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, RainSense wipers, and so much more.

The price? It's 33,990 Dollars for the base 1SV while the top-of-the-range Premium costs 36,990 Dollars. Like I said, it's running unopposed because there are no front-wheel drive convertibles in the market that can compete against the Cascada in the North American market. It's a shame really because while it maybe late for the party, the Cascada tries to reinvent itself from the ground up. So, what about the newcomer who came to the party for the first try?

2017 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Convertible

The world's first open-top convertible from Land Rover, called the Range Rover Evoque Convertible, and remember, you saw this one first because I'm not mentioning about the Cr_ssC_br__l_t (vowels blocked for search query reasons) from a distant past because the Evoque Convertible is the first of its kind and that's the end of it.

Based on the recently-facelifted Range Rover Evoque Coupe, the Convertible features similar stuff from the coupe with the clever Z-folding roof system which can be operated at speeds of up to 30mph. Think of this first-ever convertible crossover is a mixture of a visit to the Caribbean beach to the African safari because this crossover changes everything...well, sorta.

The Evoque Convertible maybe heavier than its hardtop equivalent but its offroad capability still works its charm even with the roof up, meaning this sport utility convertible loves to play rough, rain or shine. On the road, it looks pleasantly head-turning because despite being hunky, the Evoque Convertible still looks attractive, roof up or down. In rough terrain, drivers wouldn't mind getting muddy or wet while driving with the roof open. For a stylish, yet adventurous, luxury convertible, the Evoque Convertible is available with either a 2.0L TD4 diesel or a 2.0L Si4 petrol engine, all mated with the brand new 9-speed automatic gearbox as seen on the facelifted Evoque range. The petrol variant is capable of reaching 0-60mph at 7.8 seconds and onwards to 130mph.

The Evoque Convertible starts at £47,500 OTR and just like the Cascada from Buick, it's running unopposed. It's kinda shame really but when you are going to compare these guests who are either late to the party or came here for the very first time, it will be humorous enough to see the late bloomers edging out together. So, which of those late bloomers would you choose? These convertibles maybe late for the party but it would be a blast to give them a try.

Opel/Vauxhall Astra K Sports Tourer

Last year, GM Europe had introduced the all-new Opel/Vauxhall Astra K, a new generation of the hatchback that was once used as Top Gear's Reasonably Priced Car and it was a major improvement to its predecessor in terms of technology, driving dynamics, and user friendliness. For those who want to have the same feel of the hatchback but with some added space, look no further with the Sports Tourer variant.

2016 Opel Astra Sports Tourer

2016 Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer

The new Sports Tourer variant for the all-new Astra K offers the same technology, driving dynamics, and user friendliness as the hatchback version, now with an additional 26 millimeters of headroom and 28 millimeters more legroom at the back. As for the spacing, it can now accommodate up to 1,630 liters of luggage space courtesy of its optional foldable rear seats, which is more than enough to fill in some haul from your estate sale list. Sounds practical but why would you want to?

Like the hatchback version, the Sports Tourer comes with the same choice of engines such as the new 1.0T SIDI, 1.4L, 1.4L SIDI Turbo, 1.6 SIDI Turbo, and a 1.6L CDTi (with an available Bi-Turbo) engine. They can be fitted, depending on the engine type, with either a 5-speed or a 6-speed manual but there are some gearboxes made specifically for some engine choices, like the 1.0L model which can be fitted exclusively with a 5-speed EasyTronic gearbox while a 6-speed automatic gearbox can be fitted on either a 1.4 EDIT ecoFLEX or a 1.6 CDTi ecoFLEX engine.

Because it uses the same new platform as the new Chevrolet Cruze had, a base Sports Tourer weighs 130kg lighter than the old model, resulting to a better handling, better comfort, better fuel consumption, and above all, cost-effective as well. Even with an added room in the back, the Sports Tourer behaves just like the hatchback. Not only it feels good to drive but it's surprisingly comfortable as well.

The Sports Tourer also comes with an array of safety tech such as the front camera system, advanced park assist which allows this car to park by itself, and the IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights which adjusts automatically depending on time and driving conditions.

Should you buy one? The new Sports Tourer starts at 18,260 Euros (16,585 Pounds) and it's a thousand more than the hatchback equivalent but considering this car's been through extensive testing, the new Sports Tourer is a smart buy for first timers who are looking for something practical enough to get through one estate sale after another, if they got some room in the boot to fill in their shopping cart full of stuff.

Photo: General Motors

Opel/Vauxhall Astra K

The car that was once used as Top Gear's Reasonably Priced Car for three seasons has been renewed for a brand new generation and for the latest generation, the new Opel/Vauxhall Astra K wants to live out in its own rules just as how its predecessor fared well of being a reasonably priced car used by celebs round the track.

2016 Opel Astra

2016 Vauxhall Astra

Well, there they are and judging from its looks, it looks rather identical to its reasonably priced predecessor but no matter which side you're looking at, this is still the reasonably priced car you would hope for if you're not in the mood for something boring nor exciting. Who knows, it could becoming the ideal car to start if you got a driving license for the first time since it only costs 17,260 Euros (15,295 Pounds) plus the added extras and the insurance needed before setting off on your maiden drive through town.

2016 Opel Astra

2016 Vauxhall Astra

So, what choices do you get under the bonnet? Well, the new Astra K is offered with a new 1.0T SIDI, 1.4L, 1.4L SIDI Turbo, 1.6 SIDI Turbo, and a 1.6L CDTi (with an available Bi-Turbo) engine. Most of the engines are new so let's introduce those who aren't familiar with them. The new 1.0T SIDI has 105PS of power and 170Nm of torque with CO2 emissions ranging from 102 to 96g/km. This engine is mated exclusively with a brand new 5-speed semi-automatic EasyTronic 3.0 gearbox. That gearbox sounds new and the way it behaves feels somewhat similar to Suzuki's Auto Gear Shift gearbox used on their smaller cars, if I dare say. Anyway, also new is the 1.4 engine, which in turbo guise, can get up to 150PS of power, and 245Nm of torque, so it's a great mid-range choice for those who wanted something of a well-balanced performer. And then, there's the 1.6 CDTi engine where, in most economical versions, it promises better CO2 emissions of less than 95g/Km. Although diesel versions have lesser power ratings than petrol versions, it has better torque to keep things afloat.

Underneath the Astra is a newly developed platform that will be used on the next Chevrolet Cruze, resulting to a much smaller size and lighter bodywork and when combined with the most clever suspension setup available to most European cars, not only it feels good to drive but it's surprisingly comfortable. I might have a feeling that when this new model compare this to the previous model round the Top Gear track, chances are that the new Astra will lap faster than the old one. The same way that the Kia cee-apostrophe-d did when it was renewed years ago.

For safety, the new Astra's front camera system, includes traffic sign recognition, following distance indicator, forward collision alert and an active lane-keep assist indicator. It even comes with an advanced park assist which allows this car to park by itself. Sounds witchcraft to us but flattering if you engage this nifty gadget at your expense. What's even more clever in the new Astra is the new IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights which adjusts automatically depending on time and driving conditions.

2016 Opel Astra interior

2016 Vauxhall Astra interior

So, with the new Astra getting more of a reasonably priced car as the hopefuls hoped for, the interior is well poised, well balanced, comfortable, and more high tech. It even comes with climate control, ergonomic sports seats, AirWellness, and the new IntelliLink infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The spacing's not so bad either but you can expect more cargo space in the Sport Tourer later on.

In conclusion, the new Astra is a major improvement to its predecessor in terms of technology, driving dynamics, and user friendliness. Despite its added improvements, the new Astra retains its reasonably priced character, making it very accessible to anyone who wanted to buy a reasonably priced car to drive anywhere. Truth be told, we are getting jealous why Top Gear never featured it in the show and we want to see how it performs on the TV show in the near future.

Photo: General Motors

Mini JCW (F56) vs. Audi RS3 Sportback (8V) vs. Opel/Vauxhall Corsa E OPC/VXR

Back when the new generation Mini was launched, the latest model is no longer a Mini in terms of size. It's more of a Wumbo if you ask them. Despite its go-kart handling promise that Mini delivers for the new model, it doesn't cut the mustard when it gets through tight spaces and it doesn't feel like what the old Mini does in its heydays.

2015 Mini John Cooper Works

So, what do we have here? I'm sensing jealousy from anyone who haven't tried this one out yet. Yes, this is the high-performance version of the new Mini, it's called the John Cooper Works, and for this new model, Mini claims that this is their most powerful car in the family tree, although I'm not particularly sure that this is their best bet in the world of hot hatches.

It's powered by a turbocharged 2.0L petrol engine generating 231PS of power and 320Nm of torque. When mated with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, 0-100kph takes about 6.1 seconds and a top speed of around 246kph. That sounds like a quick car for a quick getaway from your nana's house but because all good hot hatches need to be good at handling, how was it? Is it better than the Cooper S any person had one?

Thanks to its track-honed suspension setup as well as Brembo brakes and special alloy wheels made specifically for this model, the new model isn't half bad to thrash around in the corners. Since this car is all about being a beginner's luck, any driver can drive one before getting advance through luxury sports cars and high-end exotics. Perhaps this is more of a crash course for those who are new to the track day scene, eh? What about taking on the city roads? Is it worth it? Well, not quite because since this is still a wumbofied Mini, your best chance is not to drive it on the tights because you'll be getting a hard time surviving on small spaces much as the normal new Mini does.

Yes, it might still be as big as the normal Mini, but to be honest, the new JCW mixes the things that are right with the things that are wrong so even though this is worth of a challenge, this is still a well accessible track day car you can use it anytime just as long as it doesn't get to situations that doesn't cut the mustard.

2016 Audi RS3 Sportback

If you're opening to suggestions that the new Mini JCW is lacking power, perhaps you should better off with this; the all-new Audi RS3 Sportback.

Think of the new RS3 Sportback as a posh version of its cousin, the VW Golf R, but unlike the Golf R, this new RS3 comes with a 2.5L 5-cylinder turbocharged engine developing 367PS of power and 465Nm of torques. It's the most powerful hot hatch ever created by the Volkswagen Group, and even though this is more than the pre-facelifted A45 AMG, the currently-facelifted A45 AMG backlashed it with more power, which is kinda sad.

Anyway, because this is Audi's most powerful hatchback in the range, it's 0-100kph time is 4.3 seconds while the top speed electronically limited to 250kph or you can go for an optional extra where the limit can be raised to 280kph, which is definitely a fast hatch full-stop.

Of course, good hot hatchbacks don't rely on straight-line performance, and how does the RS3 fare well as a track-day car? Sadly, it's very challenging. Even though it has a four-wheel drive powertrain, driving the new RS3 is like trying to survive a bull riding competition for years and when it sees a corner, best to prepare some painkillers over this one because it's too much grip and understeering can be a pain in the neck. If this car understeers, it's like you've got choked by an angry German who got his schnitzel messed up.

So, would you recommend it? Well, in terms of speed, the new RS3 is a clear bet but in terms of track day use, perhaps this new model warns the drivers that it will going to send them to the chokey. Man, someone's going to get choked by this hot hatch when it understeers.

2016 Opel Corsa OPC

2016 Vauxhall Corsa VXR

If it's affordability you're after, how about this? The new Opel Corsa OPC (Vauxhall Corsa VXR). Now, according to the pricelist, the new Mini JCW costs around 29,900 Euros while the new RS3 starts at 52,700 Euros. The newest version of the Corsa OPC/VXR starts at a very accessible 24,650 Euros (18,375 Pounds) and what you have here is a pocket rocket with very accessible handling that makes it popular among car enthusiasts.

Of course, its 2.0L turbo engine produces the least amount of power when compared to the new JCW and the new RS3, but unlike the other two, it's compact and nimble enough to cut through corners like a game of fruit ninja. Juicy.

It feels generous, it feels accessible, and when getting through the tightest of situations, it's not half bad at all. This is definitely the ideal hot hatch you can have if you're in a mood for some track-day fun.

So, what's your pick? Well, when you compare these hot hatches, chances are very random because a few might go for the new JCW, some might go for the new RS3, while most might go for the hot Corsa. Above all, the newest Corsa OPC/VXR is their best chance because even though it's not as powerful as the others, it's a very accessible hot hatch that you can use it all the time as long as they're not involved in any shenanigans on the city,

Opel Karl/Vauxhall Viva

2016 Opel Karl

2016 Vauxhall Viva

The latest city cars in General Motors' European division, the Opel Karl and its British equivalent, the Vauxhall Viva, are more than just serving as a replacement for the old Agila city car but these new city cars will satisfy first-time drivers who got themselves a driver's license in the first place and start finding their first car to work with at very reasonable prices.

Sure, they maybe targeted for European audiences in mind but what makes us as bizarre as the curly haired man who talks about aliens from a certain show is these cars are both built in South Korea and they're based on the next Chevy Spark, which sadly, it won't be coming to the European mainland for good due to Chevrolet's withdrawal from the European market. Perhaps no wonder why GM Europe decided to use the Karl and the Viva as the supplement for the Chevy Spark's European demise much in the same case when their next-generation Astra will supplant where the Chevy Cruze left off. Of course, the next Cruze will not be coming to Europe at all.

2016 Vauxhall Viva interior

2016 Opel Karl interior

So, what's it all about these new city cars made for European first-timers in mind? For starters, the design may not be bad for a city car but it looks as cheap as its introductory price of 9,500 Euros (7,995 Pounds in the UK). On the inside, that's a total contrast to its cheap exterior looks because if you gone for the top-spec models, you get a nifty sat-nav system but whatever you do, don't even bother bringing your CDs because in the Viva, you can't find a CD player. It's just USB and Bluetooth connectivity made to play your digital files and this is just another one of the cruel ways why there are some cars of the future don't bother putting CD players and instead gone for the limp-wristed USB and Bluetooth connectivity because it's more convenient. It's a shocking grim vision that within the next two years, all new cars will not have CD players at all.

Anyway, while we wist away over its audio system that has no meaning of equality over music mediums, the Karl/Viva feels like a normal car for that size and with seating up to five people, it's a great car if you want to have a day out with your mates. The spacing's not so bad but it still needs room for improvement though because being a car made for first-timers, it needs to adapt situations where typical first-timers tend to go through such as garage sales, shopping malls, groceries, and so on.

2016 Opel Karl

2016 Vauxhall Viva

Since this is built to be a city car in the first place, the Opel Karl/Vauxhall Viva has to be like one and it has a one-litre ECOFLEX engine with up to 75HP of power and 99g/km of CO2 emissions mated with a 5-speed gearbox. That doesn't feel as quick by today's standards but it feels so nippy and lively for a small car and when you engage it to CITY MODE, the Karl/Viva feels so easy to handle as carrying a tote bag on your way to school. Although not sporty, it's somewhat a bit fun to drive and very civilized as well. Safety wise, the Karl/Viva has a lot of safety features for a small car like the rear park assist technology, hill-start assist, lane-departure, cruise control, speed limiter, and more. This is a great car to start with if you're new into the driving scene.

So, what's to like about the Karl/Viva? Its price, its mobility, its small car performance, and it's a great car to start with. What's not to like about these cars are its sat-nav system because it doesn't have a CD player, its cheap looks, its small boot that needs refining, and there are some things that needs a little work to keep the Karl/Viva competitive with the rivals.

Photo: General Motors Europe

Opel/Vauxhall Corsa E

2015 Opel Corsa

2015 Vauxhall Corsa

The Corsa city car has spawned its fifth-generation model and this new version of the city car popular among those who got themselves a learner's permit from the driving school tries to be more of a matured hatchback when tackling on areas that are very metropolitan to the drivers' eyes.

In terms of design, it's kinda more of a mashup between the smaller Adam and the bigger Astra. You can notice the Adam-esque front face and the Astra-ish rear view on it but by the looks of it, it isn't half bad at all.

There are different kinds of Corsas to choose from, ranging from a three-door model for those who don't have friends and a five-door model for those who do have friends. Whichever Corsa you choose, you have a choice of either a 1.0L ECOTEC, 1.2L, a 1.4 ecoFlex, a 1.4 Turbo, or a 1.3 CDTi engine.

2015 Opel Corsa

2015 Vauxhall Corsa

The ideal Corsa will be the one with the 1.0L ECOTEC engine with the 115PS power output and the 170Nm torque output because this kind of engine will give its bigger counterparts some good kicking. With that kind of engine, you can get through 0-100kph in 10.3 seconds and flatout in 195kph. That sounds quick for a supermini equipped with a very small engine and looks like this will pose a bigger threat to the Ford Fiesta.

For those who are fuel-conscious should go for the more fuel efficient 1.3 CDTi engine with the 95PS power output because of its 29.4 to 30.3km/L fuel consumption as well as its 89 to 87g/km CO2 emissions. Not bad for a diesel-powered supermini, though.

Transmission choices, depending on the variant, include a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, or the 5-speed Easytronic gearbox.

The previous Corsa felt like you're trying to ride on a fire extinguisher-powered concierge trolley and although sounds cumbersome, the quality is worth betraying for the driver, especially those who got their driver's licenses. For the new model, the ride has been slightly improved as well as its handling despite the fact that some of the bodywork were derived from the previous generation. Although you may find it very cheap to handle like Postman Pat's but it is maneuverable and very accessible. As long as you satisfy its needs for a supermini, the Corsa will be as happy as a laughing baby.

2015 Opel Corsa interior

2015 Vauxhall Corsa interior

Apart from the "accessible" part, the interior is more likeable than the old one it replaces. It may be more of a ADAM lookalike but on high-end models, you get some nifty gadgets such as IntelliLink, which adds Bluetooth and iPod connectivity at your fingertips. It even comes with an optional app which allows the BringGo navigation app to work through the screen. Although I may find it to be a hassle than most sat-navs, it's money well spent.

The new Corsa starts at 11,980 Euros (9,175 Pounds in the UK) and it's still one of the not-so-bad cars money can buy, even for first-timers.

Photo: General Motors Europe