AT12MARIf you’re considering a new car for 2012, why not try an offering from a manufacturer you’ve never considered before? If the car you plump for is anything like the Hyundai i40 Tourer, you’re likely to be pleasantly surprised.

Hyundai may be considered an anonymous also-ran here in the UK, but it’s the fourth largest car maker in the world, and the i40 is the perfect example of why they sell so well. Gadget-laden and with interior design and quality on a par with major rivals like the Ford Mondeo, there’s no objective reason you wouldn’t buy one. It’s also massively practical, with a roomy, inviting interior and a huge boot.

Things look even better when you consider the i40’s price. With a fully loaded, top spec model coming in at £25,895, it undercuts a similarly specced Mondeo by around £5,000. It also outmatches the Mondeo’s three-year, 60,000 mile warranty with a five-year triple care service which includes a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five years roadside assistance and five years of annual complementary vehicle health checks.

The current model’s styling is also worlds away for the humdrum of Hyundai’s of old, and a match for any of its European competition. It makes the sober styled Volkswagen Passat Estate in particular, look very staid.

Ok, so it’s unlikely to be the last word in driving thrills, but if what you really want is a comfortable, practical, well specced car that doesn’t cost the earth and won’t let you down, then look past the badge and consider an i40 Tourer. It could be all the car you ever need.

12-plate wish list

Feb 01: Hyundai i40 Tourer
Feb 02: Audi A4
Feb 03: Ford Focus
Feb 06: Citroen DS4
Feb 07: Volkswagen up!
Feb 08: Vauxhall Astra GTC
Feb 09: Audi A1 Sportback
Feb 10: Renault Scenic
Feb 13: Subaru XV
Feb 14: Renault Twingo (video)
Feb 15: MINI Coupe
Feb 16: Nissan LEAF
Feb 17: MINI Coupe (video)
Feb 20: Hyundai i30
Feb 21: Chevrolet Camaro
Feb 22: Porsche 911 (video)
Feb 23: Kia Picanto
Feb 24: BMW 1-Series
Feb 27: Honda Civic
Feb 28: Hyundai Veloster