Fiat Grande Punto 1,4 T-JET

Soon after receiving a raft of interior improvements to lift levels of perceived quality, and benefitting from the introduction of new engines, CAR tested possibly the finest example yet of Fiat’s Grande Punto, the 1,4-litre T-Jet Dynamic. The turbocharged 1,4-litre engine boasts 88 kW and 206 N.m of torque is mated with a five-speed manual transmission. The advantage of turbocharging a smaller capacity engine is that performance is improved without the usual hefty fuel consumption penalty. The performance theme of this engine has not necessarily been carried through to the rest of the package, which, in this case, is for the better, as the Grade Punto T-Jet remains a comfortable car to drive under everyday conditions. Finding a comfortable driving position is made easier by height adjustment on the driver’s seat and rake and reach adjustment for the steering column. Fiat South Africa has a tendency of being slightly optimistic in terms of pricing throughout its range, and their best Grande Punto is no exception, so it remains to be seen whether it can swim with the big fish in this segment, but this little Fiat deserves its place in the pond.

Mini Cooper S Convertible

Losing the rigidity of a fixed roof, the convertible Mini sacrifices a small amount of the inherent impressive dynamics in favour of some poser appeal, but the rag top versions do still offer kart-like turn in and agility. This model does have its compromises in terms of limited practicality and an especially firm ride. But then, the Mini brand represents fun-filled driving and something a bit different from the norm. The reason it gets away with so much mischief is that delivers what it promises. We believe that the standard Cooper may be the better option as an open-top cruiser, but the appeal of the extra power that the turbocharged Cooper S delivers, can be addictive.

Lexus RX350 XE

Now sporting far more macho looks, courtesy of a less pointy nose and more purposeful stance on big 19-inch wheels, Lexus’s new RX looks set to cause waves in the luxury SUV segment. Inside, Lexus has done its usual excellent work, with the RX boasting a spacious, high-tech cabin made of the finest quality materials. There’s one big change, however, for the first time a “haptic” controller replaces Lexus’ usual touch-screen control system. But no worries, it works superbly. Buyers will have to make up their own minds about the boot, however… Lexus has wisely fitted a full-size spare-wheel, but this hampers boot space. Power comes from a punch 3,5-litre V6 engine that delivers 204 kW and 284 N.m of torque. The engine is mated with an all-new six-speed automatic transmission, and power goes to all four wheels via Lexus’ Active Torque Control AWD system that automatically transfers power to the rear wheels when slip is detected. For when the going gets very rough, there is also a manually activated diff-lock. To find out how the Lexus RX350 XE performed in our road test, get the August issue of CAR, on sale 20 July.

Audi A6 2,0 T FSI MULTITRONIC

Executive saloons live in a small nice in market where once they represented a great volume of sales. The freshened A6 has subtly revised frontal styling including new headlamps incorporating daytime running lights. Enhancing the typically classy Audi cabin are a materials upgrade, a new steering wheel, revised instruments and MMI system. The There is no manual A6 offering any more and a Multitronic is not everyone’s transmission of choice. Its “continuously variable” modus operandi precludes the systematic rise and fall in engine revs encountered with a conventional automatic, which is off-putting until you get used to it. The 2,0 RSI did not win over all of the test team, and without trying to labour the point, the Multitronic is ho-hum. The base A6 is a spacious and comfortable executive saloon that is well priced and with definite appeal, but it is unlikely to steal a big slice of the sales cake.

Volkswagen Scirocco 2,0 TSI DSG

Scirocco has always been aimed at a buyer who is prepared to forego some of the convenience offered by a conventional hatchback or saloon in favour of something just a little less practical, but a bit more individualistic. This third-generation Scirocco certainly succeeds in that area. There are enough subtle differences between to this three-door model a personality apart from the fifth-generation Golf GTI, on which it is based – longer body, and wider front and rear tracks, which play a large part in enhancing the car’s dynamics. What Scirocco offers is little extra something. Limited numbers will ensure some exclusivity, and its striking looks are bound to age well. These days, 147 kW in a hot hatch is considered good enough rather than scorching, but we like the Scirocco because it does the basics right.