BMW 220i Coupe (2014)

A tad over $50k gets you a 135kW/270Nm, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine; state-of-the-art auto; rear-wheel-drive dynamics; a host of equipment; first-class safety; and classy interior; all wrapped up in a compact, sleek three-door body. We think it’s a lot of car for the money. 

There’s some initial turbo lag, but the inline-four is a tractable unit, delivering peak power across a 5000-6250rpm range. The torque spread is also mightily broad, maxing out at 1250rpm and staying strong through to 4500rpm. 

BMW’s eight-speed auto is one of our favourites, delivering its up or downshifts with near-indiscernible precision, and there’s a drive mode for every occasion. Around town, select EcoPro for thrifty commuting; switch to Comfort for when the journey takes a bit longer and the ride needs to be softer. And when the back roads twist and turn, opt for Sport or Sport+ – the steering weightens, throttle response sharpens and suspension firms to deliver an impressively sporty drive.

The interior is comfortable, accommodating and well-equipped.

Our test car came with optional $4385 M Sport package, so it looked the goods with 18-inch alloys, aero kit, rear spoiler, sport suspension and leather trim.