These reviews are merely vehicles that we've sat in and had the opportunity to critique based on first impressions. Actual reviews will be coming later once we are able to get our hands on one for an actual road test.
Mercedes GLA (AMG45)
Likes: It's more of a hot-hatch and that's not a bad thing in our books. All-wheel-drive provides tenacious grip.
Dislikes: The ride comfort is beyond unforgiving. The example shown to us costs $71k!!! The interior is cramped with iffy interior build quality.
Overall: Stay clear of any GLA AMG over $65k. It's just not worth it.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
Likes: Both engines are more than capable for the job. One of the most stylish sedans we've seen in a while with driving dynamics that can give BMW a run for its money.
Dislikes: Interior build quality is on the iffy side. Electronic gear selector is annoying beyond belief.
Overall: It's stylish with driving dynamics to match.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Likes: Running costs are improved thanks to hybrid technology. The somewhat useless third-row seat is gone. Attractive starting price with generous standard kit.
Dislikes: The PHEV is the only way you can have the Outlander with five-seat configuration. EV-range is limited.
Overall: Anyone seeking a hybrid that's not a Toyota Prius will like this one.
Subaru Crosstrek
Likes: It's one of the most ruggest CUVs you can buy. Interior has been improved dramatically with added new luxury features.
Dislikes: A 2-liter turbo option would be great.
Overall: Sticking to its laurels but with better refinement and interior quality.
Toyota iM
Likes: The standard features is high while running costs are low. It's stylish and offers plenty of value for the money.
Dislikes: It looks sporty but the driving experience is the complete opposite.
Overall: It's a modern day Geo Metro, but it's much better in refinement and build quality.
Honda Civic Type R
Likes: It's the Civic of Civics. Despite only being front-wheel-drive it surely doesn't feel like it. It feels more eager than a Focus RS.
Dislikes: The styling is way over the top. Where's the SI version of the hatch?
Overall: If the Fast and Furious dubbed a Honda Civic.
BMW X4
Likes: It's the most recognizable crossovers on the road. Despite being so odd looking, it's quite enjoyable to drive.
Dislikes: It's utterly pointless and expensive.
Overall: It's an expensive way to be different. A utterly pointless way at that.
Audi RS3
Likes: Pint-sized 400hp rocket. Typical Audi interior excellence. Quattro all-wheel-drive grips tenaciously.
Dislikes: Slightly cramped for space in the rear.
Overall: We'd like it even more if the Golf R had this engine.
Porsche 911 Carrera
Likes: It's the creme de la creme of the sports coupe world. It's the most sensible way to spend loads of money on a car (strong residuals and resale value that is). It drives, handles and sounds like it was engineered by the car gods.
Dislikes: It's expensive with options and some of those options shouldn't even be optional.
Overall: Don't walk into a Porsche Dealer thinking you'll walk away with a reasonably priced (new) 911; they'll send you to the gallows.
(Note: The 'Gallows' bit is pure satire.)
BMW M3
Likes: Pure excellence made into a package that's easy to live with.
Dislikes: It's pretty hard to fault, but if we had to it's a tad on the steep side with options.
Overall: The turbo six-cylinder is quicker and has more torque. However, nothing can replace that NA eight-cylinder soundtrack of the previous generation.
