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First sight: Volkswagen Passat (2015)

In recent years, European buyers have been switching their mid-size sedans and wagons for smaller cars, crossovers and SUVs. The Volkswagen Passat, Europe's most successful company car, has defined this market segment pretty much since it arrived back in 1973, and this latest, eighth-generation model has been designed to attempt to reverse that buying trend. When we catch up with design director Dr Klaus Bischoff at the car's unveiling, he's certainly confident that the new car represents a significant step forward.

Skoda Yeti UK Prices

Skoda has released UK prices and specifications for the Yeti The Skoda Yeti is a much better bet than the recently announced Skoda Fabia Scout – a butched-up Estate with two wheel drive – as it is the real deal, with proper four-wheel drive and the ability to actually do at least a decent amount of soft-roading and, in all probability, make a decent fist of some rougher stuff too. Admittedly, to keep headline prices low, there are two-wheel drive versions too, and these are the bargain priced ones – starting from £13,750 – but you”ll have to pay a fair chunk more to get a full 4×4 – prices on the Skoda Yeti 4×4 start at £17,170 for the 2.0 litre TDi Yeti S. Even the entry-level Yeti E comes with Aircon and remote locking, and the extras add up as you go through the range.

Lexus ranks highest in J.D. Power dependability study

Lexus remains the most dependable vehicle brand after three years of ownership but the Detroit 3 continue to close the gap with foreign rivals, J.D. Power and Associates says. Lexus, Porsche, Lincoln, Toyota and Mercedes-Benz top Power's 2013 Vehicle Dependability Study.