COTYCONTENDERS: FORD FIESTAand SKODA SUPERB:We look at two of this year's contenders for the title of European Car of the Year
FORD FIESTA
Why is it a contender?
When it comes to downsizing, it's an ideal small car - stylish and spacious.
It's also an improvement on the outgoing model and its fit and finish push it to the front of the small car market. As with many shortlisted cars this year, it will be a big volume player.
Who is it aimed at?
The masses: from empty-nesters and pensioners to first-time students. It's significantly more spacious than its predecessor, so it's closer to the requirements of a small family, while the design is smart enough to appeal to the more image-conscious motorist.
What's under the bonnet?
As expected from such a mass-market car, there's a wide range of engine options. In Ireland we are getting a 1.25-litre, 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol and a 1.4-litre diesel. The top of the range will initially be the 1.6-litre 118bhp petrol.
One engine that is not an initial arrival for Ireland is the 1.6-litre diesel. It's a blast compared to the limp and lifeless 118bhp petrol equivalent.
At entry level, the 1.25-litre is a great little powertrain. It's nippy around town, capable on the motorway and a great match for the car. Relatively low emissions keep costs and taxes low.
What's it like to drive?
Smart and snappy. The new Fiesta feels solid and well weighted behind the wheel. While small, you never feel vulnerable. It handles with a cheeky enthusiasm that we expect from Ford, which has earned great respect for chassis developments that make its cars fun to drive.
Why it might win
It manages to be both small and frugal without forcing owners to make sacrifices in terms of space or comfort. It sets a benchmark in terms of interior trim in its class and is fun to drive.
It's an important car for Ford and symbolises a renewed focus on small cars. Many of its rivals have long been cheap and cheerless but the new Fiesta offers a great package for a good price.
Why it might not
It will be a strong contender, but the likes of the Opel Insignia might just pip it in terms of providing a more radical leap forward. The fact the car has grown in size may also be seen as bucking a trend started with the Mazda2, with which this car shares its underpinnings. Small cars should be just that: small.
How much?
Prices are in line with the market - starting at €15,000 - rather than setting value benchmarks. It's mainstream rather than bargain buy.
Is it worth it?
Yes. The extra space means that back seats can actually carry adults while the new layout, particularly the smart central console, make it a relatively decent place to spend your time.
What is it up against and does it match up?
Its main rivals are the Opel Corsa and Toyota Yaris, along with the Mazda2. The Corsa was perhaps the first small car to show that a small car need not mean sacrifice. The Fiesta furthers that principle. The Toyota has long been the rock-solid buy in Ireland but this offers a stylish alternative. The Mazda2 may be the best handling small car, along with the Suzuki Swift, but the Fiesta matches both.
SKODA SUPERB
Why is it a contender?
It's a motoring tardis. You could hide a family of four in the boot and it has more rear legroom than a Mercedes S-Class. It can take three child seats in the back, making it more practical than many people carriers. Throw in strong value and it is obvious why it's on the shortlist.
Who is it aimed at?
Family motorists looking for value for money. Up against established models like the Ford Mondeo and VW Passat, there remains a certain brand snobbery in this part of the market. But even the most cynical will be impressed with the space and some of the standard features.
What's under the bonnet?
The 2.0-litre diesel is the only sensible buy, although it comes with a choice of three petrol engines, from a 1.4-litre 125bhp to a 3.6-litre 260bhp. The Superb features the latest 2.0-litre common-rail diesel engine from VW. Putting out 168bhp, it keeps its emissions down to 153g/km.
That's better in power and fuel consumption than the older 2.0-litre 140bhp version also on offer. With the same annual tax outlay, the €700 premium for 30 more horsepower is worth it.
There is a Greenline 1.9-litre diesel eco-version available that comes in with just 123g/km, but it will only appeal to the most fervent green motorist.
What's it like to drive?
Fine, if not very exciting. It's no slouch in terms of performance but handling could be better. The suspension gives a comfortable ride but it's no class leader in this regard or in its dynamic driving characteristics. It's not as fun as some rivals.
Why it might win
This could well be the dark horse. While attention will fall on others, it offers great value. It might not win any design awards when pitted against the Opel Insignia or Ford Mondeo, but neither matches its ability in terms of load lugging. Space is phenomenal for a €30,000 car. There may also be a view to reward the firm for revamping a brand that was once the punchline for jokes.
Why it might not
Despite its space, it doesn't win many plaudits for design - and performance is good, if not exceptional. It puts Skoda in the mix with established brands, rather than setting benchmarks. Some may find it difficult to score it highly for innovation.
How much?
Prices start at just €25,990 for the Greenline 1.9-litre diesel version but for €35,000 you can get a well-equipped model with the 2-litre diesel engine.
Is it worth it?
It's hard to argue against the Superb in terms of value. It might not drive as well as a Mondeo but it's as good as many others, with all that extra space.
What is it up against and does it match up?
Its rivals - Mondeo, Avensis and Passat - are all well-established, but the economic crisis has seriously shaken buyer's norms and even the biggest brand snobs will be taking a second look. The Mondeo is more fun to drive, the Opel Insignia more stylish, but it is unrivalled for space. If that's what you're looking for, this is the real deal.