Top pick: Volkswagen Beetle TDI, $25,575

Saddle up a punchy diesel engine, make an elegant, functional interior, and the new VW Beetle TDI is in blast-off mode.

Diesel power rules. The Beetle TDI leaves the start line like the snap from a sling shot. 140 hp and 236 lb.-ft. of torque don’t tell the story of how this engine pulls with the determination of a Jack Russell terrier. But there’s no gnashing or banging with the power — the engine is smooth and quiet. Inside, the Beetle bucks the trend of electronic distraction: there are buttons, dials and not too many, but yet you have everything you need. Simple, sporty, solid.

We liked:

-Sneaky-fast diesel power with fewer fill-ups

-Muscular body bits put bite in bug

-Headlight switch simplicity: they’re on or off

-Engine is quiet but you can make it growl

-Flat-bottomed steering wheel has great grip

-Painted body-colour inserts, flashy style

-Snuggable seats supportive, sporty, superior

More: 2012 Volkswagen Beetle: VW’s Bug gets a little more bite

Mazda3 Sport SkyActiv, $16,995

Get in and get going. Simple as that. Mazda3 combines a superbly functional interior with on road performance that is sure-footed and fun.

We liked:

-Athletic on the road

-Tight, responsive, confident

-Logical layout unclutters the interior

Chevrolet Sonic LTZ, $14,155

The Sonic is lean and light, a hatch that celebrates simplicity. It feels young, but drives grownup. Load it up and let it rip.

We liked:

-Low-slung, beefy hatch with attitude

-Peppy turbo sonic snappy to drive

-1,259 kg makes it tossable

Hyundai Elantra GT, $19,149

The Elantra GT combines zesty driving with features galore. Heated seats, rear-view camera, secret storage, music management. Endless amusement.

We liked:

-Push-button selectable steering

-Comfort or sport: you choose

-Panoramic sunroof an observatory on wheels

Ford CMAX Hybrid, $27,199

Not a van, not an SUV, just a good choice to move people and things. The CMAX Hybrid is like a tall Ford Focus, and that’s a good thing. It’s multi-use and engaging to drive, you’ll want to take a trip!

We liked:

-Good power mated with good mileage numbers

-Power liftgate and low floor makes loading easy

-Breathe easy: CMAX has an anti-allergic interior