TOYOTA COROLLA SX 5D HATCHBACK (1989-1991)
MORE refined, roomier and a lot of fun to drive, the Australian- built Corolla has a gem of an engine that loves to rev. Too bad it looks like everyone else's shopping basket. Lacks the 1986-1989 Corolla Twin Cam's street cred and spunk.

FORD LASER TX-3 3D HATCHBACK (1990-1991)
ALMOST a big car with space a welcome benefit, the ugly US- styling and plasticky interior count against it in the street. Made in Japan and sharing the delightful MX-5 derived twin cam engine, the refined and well balanced TX3 is a sensible buy.

PEUGEOT 205 Si 3D HATCHBACK (1991-1994)
ZIPPY performance from low-tech 1.6-litre, timeless styling and real practicality explain the off-beat 205's massive loyalty and appeal. Reliable, comfortable and well specced, the Si is a superb buy but it needs Peugeot specialist care.

NISSAN MICRA SUPER S 3D HATCHBACK (1995-1997)
IGNORED but fantastic to own and drive, the British-built Micra is today's Mini with mod-cons - anti-lock brakes, sunroof and airbag (from August 1996) - and Nissan reliability. Amazingly economical and fabulously agile.