The shortlist for 2013's European Car of the Year award has been announced, so we thought we’d run through each of the hopefuls.
Peugeot 208 – Critics say this is the best looking car in its class, with an attractive interior and a good selection of engines. The driving position has raised eyebrows, however. It is 30% cheaper to engineer and build than previous Peugeots.
Clio – Another French car that has once again found itself towards the front of its pack, with an exciting design that is arguably far more interesting than the Ford Focus, the VW Polo or the Kia Rio.
Mercedez A Class – Superb interior – but is that all that sets it apart from ‘non-premium’ cars? Possibly.
Golf – The VW flagship is back again, with very little to fault in its new incarnation.
V40 – Another superb offering from the Swedish outfit, with safety systems that would keep Evil Knievel safe and sound.
Hyundai i30 – Traditionally a budget car maker, Hyundai’s i30 is now as well spec’d as some Fords and Vauxhalls – and may well be cheaper.
Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ – Critics suggest that you would have to stump up twice as much to get a car that comes close to the GT86/BRZ. Praise indeed.
Ford B-Max – A well made car that compares well to its rivals. The only sticking point? Those sliding doors may pose a risk to your loved one’s fingers.
All in all a selection of good value cars from manufacturers who have been offering quality vehicles to the UK public for many years – in much the same way as startrescue.co.uk has been delivering value car breakdown cover to Britain’s motorists, year in, year out.
Breakdown Cover from 
