1st - BMW 120i
Rear-drive sports involvement in a pint-sized package sees the 120i offer both the best dynamics and the best value in this class, which included the (failed-to-place) Volvo C30 and Alfa Romeo 147. Acing the field on value is no mean feat when you start off as the most expensive entrant, yet that’s what the Bangle-designed BMW has done. Its unlimited-kilometre, three-year warranty and variable service interval means the dealers aren’t skimming the cream off you quite so hard as other brands seem out to. And although its resale value doesn’t quite match that of stablemate Mini or Audi’s bronze medallist A3, any result in the 60s is a good one in today’s second-hand market.


2nd - Mini Cooper Chilli
Cooper adds sky-high resale to the ownership equation and matches BMW on service interval (but not warranty, perversely). Unbeatable fuel economy and sharp purchase price help take the pain out of the slight increase in insurance over the 120i.



3rd - Audi A3 1.8 TFSi Ambition DSG
It’s nice enough, and there’s no arguing over the technical prowess of the TFSI engine and DSG transmission. Unfortunately, the A3 is the thirstiest car on the podium, requires 95RON fuel and can’t match the BMW service interval.