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Mitsubishi's reputation has been built on good value cars and popular 4x4s, but alongside these conventional vehicles the firm has a long running performance model in the shape of the Lancer Evolution. With the basic principle of a four-wheel drive transmission and turbocharged engine wrapped in a saloon bodyshell, the Evolution IX is the most advanced version. The Evolution has a strong motorsport heritage, and it is this performance ethos that gives the model such great appeal. From the outside the aggressive scoops and large rear wing give a clear indication of the performance available, and sitting in the heavily-sculpted driver's seat and grasping the Momo steering wheel leaves the driver in no doubt that the car is designed to be driven with enthusiasm. The basic design of the Lancer's engine dates back to 1992, but it has been on the receiving end of numerous modifications and improvements to increase its performance. This iteration uses a variable valve timing system as well as turbocharger modifications for more power throughout the rev range. The effect is dramatic, as the Evolution pulls away smartly even at very low revs, yet at high revs when the turbocharger is working hard it provides rapid acceleration in every gear. Delivering this power to the asphalt is a well-proven four-wheel drive system combined with a six-speed gearbox. More sophisticated than most, the Evolution uses an active centre differential and a 'Super Active Yaw Control' system to alter the amount of power delivered to each wheel. The end result is that the car can deploy its power with ease, and gives high levels of grip when cornering at speed. All of this performance capability does little to detract from the Evolution's abilities as a family car. With the only change to the bodyshape being the addition of spoilers and scoops, the passenger......

The BMW M3 has always been one of the most popular and desirable cars from the German manufacturer, and the introduction of this generation M3 was greatly anticipated. Designed to be a high performance machine yet docile enough to use every day, the M3 also has to face rivals more capable than ever before. The basic template for the M3 has remained unchanged, with a two-door coupe bodystyle. Like M3s before it, this version wears exterior enhancements to separate it from ordinary coupe models. In reality, BMW claim the M3 shares only a handful of exterior parts with other coupes, and the differences are obvious. The front and rear bumpers are heavily sculpted for aerodynamic efficiency, and are made from lightweight plastic, as are the flared front wings. The aluminium bonnet has a distinct power bulge to accommodate the bigger engine, while the roof is made from an exotic mix of carbonfibre and plastic for light weight and strength. The bonnet bulge is necessary, as underneath lies an all-new 4.0-litre V8 engine, the first time an M3 has used an eight-cylinder unit. Loosely based on the 10-cylinder units found in larger M cars, it retains the traditional M3 characteristics with its high-revving nature - the rev limit is set at a stratospheric 8,400rpm. Yet its large capacity gives it a strong torque output, making for an ideal mix of high and low rev response. The changes underneath are just as significant, as the M3 uses re-engineered lightweight suspension components and a minimum of standard parts. Incorporated into the revised suspension layout are stiffer springs and uprated dampers, plus a host of electronic devices. Electronic dampers are available as an option, allowing the driver to tailor the suspension settings depending on the conditions. The M3 also uses the M Drive Manager, a button mounted on the steering wheel which allows the driver......

As the first new model since Bentley became part of the VW Group, the Continental GT is a crucial model. It also represents the modern interpretation of what a Bentley should be, and despite its price tag it is most competitive in terms of price and sales volume with more mainstream cars. The starting point for the GT is its shape. Rather than the traditional saloon models which have been the mainstay of the Bentley range for decades, the Continental GT comes in coupe form. It features a two-plus-two seating arrangement, although the emphasis is on the comfort of those in the front seats. The exterior styling is a mix of traditional cues and modern influences, and could certainly be regarded as a success. Mechanically the Continental GT is also radically different to previous Bentleys thanks to its drivetrain and power source. Related to the VW Phaeton, the Continental GT has a four-wheel drive transmission to handle the high output engine, a W12 unit of 6.0-litres and twin turbocharged. As well as being the first application of four-wheel drive in a Bentley, the W12 engine configuration is also rare. The combination of a compact coupe body, four-wheel drive and a high output engine makes the Continental GT a seriously fast car, and as such puts it in competition with performance luxury cars outside of the normal customer target. It is also more accessible to buyers, priced at the lower end of the GBP100,000 barrier and significantly less than other models in the range. The GT is also the most versatile car to be produced by the firm in recent years, delivering a high level of comfort but also impressive performance. As well as the powerful engine, the GT has electronically adjustable suspension to cope with cruising or high performance driving.

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On looks alone Alfa Romeo's Brera should fly out of the showrooms. Continuing the styling trend started by the Italian firm's 159, the extrovert Brera is a fitting car to replace the popular GTV. Looks can be deceiving, though. For all the car's sporting pretensions, it boasts a traditional and surprisingly practical hatchback boot. When you see Alfa Romeo make cars like the Brera, it's then that you really want the company to succeed. It has come close in recent years with various models, but the these cars have never managed to tick all the boxes all of the time. The Brera takes many of its design cues from the 159 saloon. The headlights, grille and wide stance are all familiar. However, it's at the rear of the car that things get really interesting. The Brera's wide, curvaceous rump is in complete contrast to the understated rear of the old GTV. Things are a little more restrained inside the Brera, as it uses much of the 159's cabin. On the whole this is no bad thing as it's a good design, but thanks to the car's sloping roof and the high mounted front seats there's not a lot of headroom available. At least it's difficult to find fault with the engine range. The two petrol units (2.2 and 3.2 V6 JTS) plus the powerful diesel (2.4 JTDM) work well and possess very different, entertaining characters. Although the flagship V6 variant also gains four-wheel drive, it's clear from the start that the Brera is more of a rapid GT than an all-out sports car. Power delivery is as smooth as the car's ride.

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Renowned for producing cars that are beautiful to look at, Alfa Romeo's stylish 159 can also be had sporting a Ti badge. Short for Turismo Internazionale, the label is reserved for the most sporty and luxurious models in the range. The newcomer also comes with an upgraded version of Alfa Romeo's 2.4-litre JTD diesel engine and boasts sports suspension and a subtle bodykit. A welcome addition to the range, the TI builds on the 159's role as executive ambassador for the brand. It is instantly recognisable thanks to its menacing look which is further enhanced by a lowered ride height of 20mm, 19-inch alloys, extended side sills, chrome effect door mirrors and handles plus a twin exhaust arrangement. The capable 2.4-litre diesel engine is smooth and punchy and allows the 159 TI to glide smoothly from standstill to 62mph in a decent time. Power is delivered in a steady linear fashion and the Alfa benefits from the engine's ample mid-range torque. The steering is nicely weighted and feels precise while the slick gearshift allows the driver to tease out the most performance available in every gear while grip is particularly impressive. Alfa has done a good job of the revisions to the front suspension and has added a new multilink rear configuration. Consequently the car remains balanced and poised when cornering, and the stiffened chassis compliments the 159's straight-line performance. The ride however, does become unsettled on poor surfaces and overall it still doesn't quite match the engaging drive of some of its rivals, although it is fun to drive. The 159 TI represents good value considering its generous levels of standard equipment, which includes goodies such as dual zone climate control, cruise control, a multifunction trip computer, front fog lights, alloy wheels in addition to its stunning looks and spirited driving characteristic......