Unlike many rivals, it has space for four adults, plus a decent 440-litre boot. However, the engine line-up has been slashed, so there’s just the 420i and M440i xDrive to choose from (unless you count the fire-breathing 503bhp M4). Both versions drive with typical BMW agility and engagement, but if your finances stretch, then the M4’s muscular 369bhp straight-six and 4.5-second 0-62mph time are hard to resist.
Alpine A110
Prices from £53,055
| Pros | Cons |
|
Amazing styling |
Cramped |
Brilliant to drive and oozing retro design appeal, the Alpine A110 is one of the most desirable coupe models of the past decade. At the core of the eye-catching French machine’s appeal is its lightweight construction, which helps the entry-level car tip the scales at just over 1,000kg.
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As a result, even with a relatively modest 248bhp turbocharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, the Alpine can zap from 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds – although it’s a shame there’s no manual gearbox option alongside the standard twin-clutch auto. Yet the real benefit of the car’s low kerbweight is its acrobatic agility in corners; the A110’s beautifully judged suspension combines immersive driver fun with a surprisingly supple ride.
The Alpine’s beautifully proportioned exterior design is inspired by the brand’s sixties sportscar, yet its well built and generously equipped interior is bang up to date for comfort and tech. The only fly in the ointment is the price, with entry-level cars starting at just over £50,000 and the flagship 296bhp R setting you back an eye-watering £96,000.
Porsche 718 Cayman
Prices from £53,800
| Pros | Cons |
|
Cheaper than a 911 |
Cramped cabin |
Don’t be fooled by the 718 Cayman’s ‘entry-level’ status, because it remains one of the best sports coupe models money can buy. With its perfectly balanced mid-engined handling, the Porsche is a delight to drive on twisting back roads, while even the basic 296bhp turbocharged four-cylinder model delivers a scorching turn of speed. Even better is the 4.0 GTS that features a howling 394bhp flat-six motor and a neck-snapping 0-62mph time of 4.5 seconds.
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