Mazda MX-5

FORGET all the recent launch activity with the Mazda5 and revised 6 – this is Mazda’s most important launch of the year. The cheeky MX-5 roadster has sold by the container-load since its arrival in 1989 and this new version looks set to continue that trend with chunkier styling and more power: the top-spec version gets a 165bhp 2.0-litre engine, which gives the little Mazda the oomph to be a proper little sports car.

Mercedes-Benz ML

ON sale from today, the new M-class has been thoroughly reworked with a fresh look, revised engines and a monocoque chassis for better road handling and comfort. Three engines are available: the ML350 V6 and ML500 V8 petrol units are joined by the new 320 CDI V6 diesel. All come with the 7-Gtronic auto gearbox as standard. Prices have risen by a couple of grand, though: the range starts at £36,715 for the ML320 CDI.