BMW 2 Series

Previously the 2 Series Coupe looked expensive compared with the 1 Series on which it was based but the latter is now an all-new car with a completely different layout, meaning the Coupe can now stand on its own two feet. Squeezed between hot hatches on one side and trendy crossovers on the other, the 2 Series remains a ‘discretionary purchase’ whose closest on-paper rival would be the Audi TT. Against the entry-level TT the mid-range 220i Coupe M-Sport is more expensive up front, slower and will cost a tad more in fuel. The BMW scores better for C02 though, which will appeal to company drivers if they can convince their fleet manager a two-door coupe is acceptable.

It is cheaper to buy to a comparable 3 Series saloon , the premium over the 1 Series less relevant since that car switched to a more conventional hatchback format. Diesel versions are better on both fuel and CO2, though there’s not a huge difference in running costs between the 218d and the more powerful 220d.

BMW’s pay monthly three-year service plan meanwhile fixes maintenance costs, includes two services, the first MoT and includes ongoing fluid top-ups and ‘seasonal health checks’ to help spread the costs of upkeep.