This week's issue of Autocar is jam-packed with variety, from the official first details of the new BMW M3 and BMW M4, through to a full road test of the new Range Rover Sport and an 18-page special on Britain's best affordable everyday driver's cars.
The latest on BMW's M3 and M4 includes the latest engine details, inside information on the cars' innovative weight-saving programme and an insight from the passenger seat into whether the new turbocharged engine will actually sound good enough to sit in such historic cars. Be warned, however, that the verdict on the latter is a serious worry...
Other news highlights include the official tech details of the new Mini Mk3, first details of the new Mazda MX-5 and the Alfa Romeo version of the same car and the latest on the new Citroen Cactus line of sophisticated but simple cars.
We also interview Richard Noble ahead of the 30th anniversary of his record-breaking land speed record run in Thrust 2, in which he talks through how he ran at more than 600mph 11 times and how he'd do it again if he were given the chance.
Our exhaustive eight-page road test shines the spotlight on the Range Rover Sport TDV6 SE, which is expected to be the best-seller in the range. As we discover, that's no wonder, as the Sport makes clear its credentials to be the class leader.
Other first drives include the new Mazda 3, Audi RS Q3, Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, Nissan Note, VW CrossUp and Mercedes E63 AMG S. Our long-term test fleet updates include the new Skoda Octavia, Jaguar F-type, Renault Clio, Mazda 6, BMW 7-series, Morgan Plus 8 and Mitsubishi Outlander.
Our 18-page special celebrates the cars that deliver the most fun on a sensible budget. The nine-car test pits the finest sub-£30k pocket rockets, hot hatches and rear-drivers against each other at the fabulous Cadwell Park circuit, creating a final contest on road and track that is refereed by Andrew Frankel. His final conclusion is both intriguing and noteworthy for the sheer quality of the winner.
Used car highlights include a full Ford Fiesta Mk6 buying guide, which reveals how you can land a fun, engaging supermini from just £850, James Ruppert's stars of the Frankfurt motor show... of 2005, all of which are now available at bargain prices. We also ask whether you should spend £20,000 on a new Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer or used Alpina D3 Touring.
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You can also buy one-off copies of Autocar magazine from Newsstand, delivered to your door the morning after.
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