2012 (12) Hyundai i40

Hyundai was ranked as the most improved brand of the last ten years. Proof is in the pudding as they say and the pudding in this case is the i40. It has bold, sharp styling with a sloping roofline that makes it look almost coupe-like. However, this is a practical four door saloon with plenty of room for adults in the rear. There is a veritably cavernous boot that is easy to access and make bigger thanks to the easily folding split rear seats. There is a long list of standard equipment that includes no less than nine airbags and air conditioning. The interior overall is ergonomically excellent and full of high-quality materials. There is a great driving position that is easy to get comfortable in thanks to the copious amount of adjustment in the seat and steering wheel. It drives just as well as its European rivals and is a pleasant, enjoyable drive thanks to the suspension which is ideally suited to varied Irish road surfaces.