The overall package of the R32 makes it substantially cheaper than other sports cars in its range, while it still delivers as much driving fun.

The Volkswagen Golf R32 has a sweet-sounding 24-valve quad cam 3.2-litre V6 engine and produces 184kW at 6300 revs. Add this to its 6-speed direct shift gearbox and it is a match made in heaven for sports cars aficionados. It also has a smooth power delivery with a maximum torque of 320Nm at 2500-3000 revs and is kept on the go by lightning-fast gear changes from the direct shift gearbox.

The inclusion of the fabulous 4Motion all-wheel-drive system exclusive to Volkswagen is another quality element of the Golf that transfers power to the road in all driving conditions, especially windy roads. The chassis and suspension has been tuned to provide a superbly balanced drive and the feel of steering is always communicative – a huge reassurance for the driver.

In terms of interior beauty, the Volkswagen Golf R32 offers stunning full leather seating, climate control, quality trim and fittings as well as an outstanding ergonomic layout. If you add this to the high-quality build, the Volkswagen Golf R32 is a winning package.

The Holden Commodore VE Omega has had a disappointing fall from grace over the past 2 years with the newer models being easily outdone by its rivals in the large car category, the Toyota Aurion and the Mitsubishi 380 (now discontinued).

The main problem with the entry-level Holden Commodore VE Omega is that it lacks value for money including fuel economy and has a below-average level of standard features. On the other hand, Holden have been striving for improvements and there are some minor changes that boost the credibility of the 2009 Holden Commodore VE Omega.

Apart from being more fuel economic for a 3.6-litre V6 engine, the Holden Commodore VE Omega now comes standard with six airbags and air conditioning. Less impressive is its four-speed automatic transmission that seems like it should be archaic by 2009 standards. There are also significant blind spots due to thick A and B pillars that decrease its safety rating.

Despite these flaws, the Holden Commodore VE Omega does handle superbly and is hard to top when it comes to spacious design.

The latest models to be released from Korean-based manufacturer, Kia tend to display an increasing trend towards better vehicle design and improved engineering. The Kia Rio LX is another example of how the brand is building a name for itself making reasonably valuable vehicles.

There is much to like about the Kia Rio LX, including its good looks inside and out, spritely level of performance, smooth ride, comfortable interior and of course, reasonable price.

To match its rival, Hyundai, Kia has also upgraded the Rio’s warranty to five years and unlimited kilometres. The equipment list is also a definite improvement on previous Kia Rio models, including standard ABS brakes on this LX model, dual front airbags, air conditioning, remote central locking, power windows and a CD player.

Kia also offers the sedan for the same low price as the hatch, making the Rio extremely versatile and attractive for bargain shoppers. Of course, not all is positive. The Kia Rio isn’t equipped with the best steering and can’t match others in its class for fuel consumption. However, it does win points for practical design.

If a luxury 4WD is what you’re after, the Lexus RX350 Sports is good value, especially now while its in run-out. Its combination of quality, refinement and value for money means its rivals have difficulty measuring up to this level of prestige. Even now as its time ends, it’s still in the top few.

The Lexus RX350 Sports has undoubtedly been tuned for the road rather than dirt, even though it has a permanent all-wheel-drive system. And that’s fine as long as it’s only expected for use on the roads. The lively but extreme smooth 3.5-litre V6 engine and solid dynamic base ensures it handles as best it can and safety is paramount.

While some areas are detractions for the Lexus RX350 Sports such as running repair costs and off-road ability, it does have many highlights. The practical design will be a sure-fire hit among 4WD enthusiasts, as will the RX350’s overall ride and quietness. Pricing is relatively reasonable compared to other luxury 4WDs on the market such as the Subaru Tribeca Premium and the Mercedes-Benz G500.

If there were ever a consummate all-rounding vehicle, the Audi TT-S TFSI Quattro is definitely up there. It has outstanding fuel consumption and a near-perfect rating when it comes to safety, security, depreciation and braking.

The Audi TT-S is the sport version of Audi’s ever-popular TT series. Endowed with 200kW and 350Nm, the TT-S outdoes the standard 184kW/320Nm 3.2-litre V6 version. This is due to its energetic 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission. The direct shift gearbox enables you to choose either full auto mode, manual stick shift or use the steering wheel paddles.

In terms of sports car capabilities, the Audi TT-S TFSI Quattro pulls its own. It goes from 0-100km/hr in just 5.2 seconds with a blare from the exhaust. On the open road, it is truly in its element and allows the driver to engage in blissful dynamic handling and upgraded brakes, steering and suspension.

The Audi TT-S TFSI Quattro is not just sporty, but luxurious too. The perfect fusion of function and style really proves that Audi have outdone themselves, as usual. The controls fall to hand and are readily understood, and the powered front seats are fully adjustable.

Even though there’s a new Nissan Maxima coming out shortly, you can still cash in on the current generation while the price is right. And for the grand price of $34,990, the Nissan Maxima ST-L is pretty much a bargain.

With a 3.5-litre V6 engine, the Nissan Maxima ST-L delivers refined, smooth power. The CVT transmission lowers its fuel consumption and ensures the engine is quiet, even when at crushing speeds. However, the characteristics of the CVT generally mean there is more intrusion from the engine.

With a distinctive and handsome exterior style, the Maxima boasts comfortable seats and ample space in conjunction with a list of impressive standard features. The standard electronic stability control is one plus that gives the driver reassuring support in terms of safety, although the lack of curtain airbags is a slight detraction.

The Nissan Maxima ST-L rides as a composed cruiser with fantastic handling. It could improve by taking other fuels than premium as this counts against it, although its practical design makes up for this minor shortcoming.

Although older Honda Civic models had many shortcomings such as a low safety rating and a lack of standard features, the newer Honda VTI Civic seems to have corrected these issues.

For $21,790, the Honda VTI Civic looks and feels like it should cost a lot more. This is in part because Honda’s manufacturing plants in Thailand enable them to keep the cost competitive, but in saying that, the $21,790 includes a $300 price increase on the 2008 model.

In terms of driveability, the Honda VTI Civic displays serious on-road capabilities to make each and every ride as comfortable and controlled as possible, no matter what the surface. It handles reasonably well with a surefooted speed, even on windy bits, making it ideal for city traffic or driving on the highway.

The Honda VTI Civic can comfortably fit four people, but five is a bit of a squeeze. The design of the interior is well laid out with easy-to-access controls and a functionally shaped front seat to make for an easy driving experience.

While the level of standard equipment in the VTI is not up to the scratch to others in its league, it still ticks most of the boxes.

Ever since the Toyota Yaris replaced the Echo as Toyota’s best small car package, it has been a huge hit. By combining good looks and a spacious design with Toyota’s ability to deliver value for money, the Yaris is a leader in the small car category.

The Toyota Yaris has a quality fit, finish and decent resale value for what it is. The 2009 Toyota Yaris is an upgrade on the 2008 model with highlights including a maximum 5.0 star Green Vehicle Guide rating. The Toyota Yaris YRS is the middle specification Yaris model and can be purchased as either a three or five-door vehicle.

With a decent 80kW, 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, there is weight for the front wheels that makes the whole package feel secure on the road as opposed to the smaller 1.3-litre engine. However, in both cases the Toyota Yaris rides nicely and has comfortable seats. Its performance is above average as is handling and braking. For $16,990, the Toyota Yaris is a highly attractive option for those looking for a small car that delivers value for money and a good resale value.

The second generation of the already popular Mazda 6 boasts significant gains in the safety rating thanks to the inclusion of new standard safety features across the entire 6 range. This includes dual side, front and rear curtain airbags.

The previous 2.3-litre engine is no match for the new MZR 2.5-litre as it delivers up to 3kW more power and up to 19Nm more torque. These upgrades make the Mazda 6 Classic more pleasing when it comes to revs.

Although these upgrades are significant, it surprisingly hasn’t impacted the Mazda 6 Classic’s fuel economy. While the Mazda 6 is no match for diesel-powered rivals, its fuel consumption has been pared down somewhat courtesy of lower carbon dioxide emissions.

The new Mazda 6 Classic has also had a slight facelift and an interior revamp to put it ahead of its rivals and in line with some of the best performing models in the mid-size class, such as the Honda Accord Euro. Notable inclusions are the integrated functions for audio, air conditioning, cruise control and trip computer on the steering wheel.

Ford’s UK-based team have transformed the latest Focus from an average vehicle to an impressive, slick hatch. Apart from looking snazzy, the Ford Focus XR5 Turbo boasts a Volvo 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine and a superb handling package with smooth steering and braking.

Although this Ford Focus is only a hatch, it delivers a wide sweep of torque to make the lack of an automatic model easier to accept. Unfortunately, its also lacking in cruise control and left footrest.

Regardless, the Ford Focus XR5 is gutsy and civilised enough for everyday driving and offers impressive value for its class. Improvements on the 2008 Ford Focus XR5 include a mild facelift and revamped interior, but the technical specs remain the same. In terms of design and function, comfort is a strong point, as is safety.

One disappointment is its overall price and cost of depreciation. The Ford Focus is a well-built vehicle that rides smoothly but is probably not the smartest choice in the sports car market, especially when it comes to value for money.