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The fall and rise of the budget car

Twenty years ago, the classic bargain brands like Lada seemed to be going the same way as the Soviet empire that spawned them. Woefully dated and badly made, only a weirdo would have bought a new Lada rather than a second-hand model from Ford, Vauxhall or VW. However, one of the big trends in the car industry today is the re-emergence of bargain cars.

Cadillac Ciel Concept cruises in to Pebble Beach

Cadillac Ciel Concept - sybaritic style for Californians It’s not hard to tell the General Motors has found its Mojo again after losing it to Uncle Sam; all you need to do is take one look at the Cadillac Ciel Concept that’s turned up at Pebble Beach this weekend, probably the boldest Cadillac Concept since the Cadillac Sixteen. The Cadillac Ciel is a big, impressive four-seat convertible designed to epitomise the American Dream, as it cruises along the Pacific Coast Highway, cosseting its occupants in sybaritic style. But this is 2011, so there’s a nod to the eco-sensibilities car makers feel the need to embrace.

Ford prices new 2012 Focus ST from £21,995

Ford has confirmed prices for the new Focus ST. The new 247bhp hot hatch will cost from £21,995 for the hatchback, or £23,095 for the Focus ST estate. That undercuts the VW Golf GTI, which has bumped up in price in recent years to a stout £25,330 despite having a more modest 207bhp. It also makes it better value than the £26,995 Vauxhall Astra VXR and Renaultsport Megane RS 265 at £24,840.