THE FINAL TOP FIVE

We've revealed 45 of the best non-electric cars you can buy - but what about the top five? We gather them together and pick an overall champion

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5 VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC

With its few earlier shortcomings ironed out, the T-Roc is now the definition of a well-rounded yet eminently affordable small SUV

When it comes to whisky, cheese and wine, all of these things tend to get better over time. In the world of small SUVs, the Volkswagen T-Roc has aged in a similarly positive way, thanks to a very effective mid-life update that addressed the car's few initial shortcomings.

Drivers looking for fun might still be tempted by the more agile Ford Puma, but for everyone else, the T-Roc strikes an ideal balance between handling and comfort, being grippy and composed in corners yet having a well-cushioned ride. Combine the latter with low noise levels and the T-Roc is a better motorway companion than its rivals, too.

Meanwhile, its slightly larger exterior dimensions give rear seat occupants a little extra space for travelling in comfort. The T-Roc's interior looks and feels much smarter than it did previously, too, thanks to the generous use of soft-touch materials, while the driving position is lofty and our preferred entry-level Life trim comes well equipped with alloy wheels, air conditioning and full LED headlights.

While those with a keen eye on running costs will do well to consider the hybrid Toyota Yaris Cross, the T-Roc's 1.0-litre petrol engine balances plucky performance with respectable fuel economy. True, the engine needs to be revved hard to get going at a decent pace, but it doesn't feel out of its depth in everyday driving.