Today on The Top Ten Auto Show the team take a look into the world of the top ten best Compact Executive cars of 2002, basing their final descision on pure sales figures and features.
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Enjoyed this video? Don't forget to LIKE and SHARE the video and get involved with our community by leaving a COMMENT below the video!
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Our website: http://menandmotors.com/
---- Social Media ----
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If you have any questions, e-mail us at talk@menandmotors.com
© Men and Motors - One Media iP 2023
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MotorTranscript
00:00 [Music]
00:27 Hello, this is Dave Lee Travis welcoming you to another edition of the Top Ten Auto Show.
00:32 Each week we give you the men and motors top ten countdown for a particular class of car
00:37 with the judging being carried out by the Top Ten Auto Show expert panel
00:41 which includes editors of the major motoring magazines.
00:44 And this week we give you the top ten compact executives.
00:48 So let's start the countdown at number ten.
00:50 [Music]
00:53 In at number ten this year is Jaguar's X-Type.
00:56 Now you may think that the budget price of the X-Type would mean that you'd be getting a car
01:01 that's not up to the usual Jaguar standards.
01:03 Well far from it.
01:04 Being based on the Ford Mondeo, the X-Type is going to be a good handling car
01:09 and though it's not as sharp as some of its best rivals, it's still a great performer
01:13 in both two and four wheel drive formats.
01:16 And it's certainly worthy of the Jaguar badge.
01:19 It's on the inside of the Jag you can see the real Mondeo roots
01:22 as many of the switches are taken straight from the Ford.
01:25 Though the cabin is well put together and equipment levels are good,
01:28 it's not up to the standards set by the likes of the BMW, Mercedes or Audi in this sector.
01:34 And I'm sure that many people would be put off by the heavy use of the standard Ford hardware here.
01:39 But snobbery aside, the baby Jag is a good all-round performer
01:43 and it's well worthy of a place in our top ten.
01:46 Let's now take a look at the manufacturer's facts and figures for the X-Type.
01:50 [Music]
02:15 You may be surprised that it only made tenth slot, so let's see how our expert panel scored the X-Type.
02:21 [Music]
02:30 In tenth place then, with an average percentage of 65, the Jaguar X-Type.
02:35 [Music]
02:39 Taking ninth slot this year is another relative newcomer to the world of compact executive motoring.
02:44 The Lexus IS200 and 300.
02:48 When you look at the design of the IS range of cars,
02:51 you can see that Lexus wanted to get it right first time.
02:54 It's got the rear-wheel drive layout of the best cars in this class
02:58 and both the 200 and 300 cars get straight six engines in two or three litre form.
03:04 On the inside of the IS200 and 300, everything's well laid out.
03:08 It has the usual high-end Lexus and Toyota quality feel to it.
03:12 The instrument design is the nicest feature here and it's genuinely different to anything else on the market.
03:18 When it comes to the ride, both the 200 and the 300 are certainly more sporty than most executives.
03:24 That does mean that around town and on uneven road surfaces, the ride can seem harsh.
03:29 But out on the motorway, where this car's likely to spend most of its time,
03:33 the Lexus is a superb car for eating up the miles.
03:36 So, if you fancy an executive motor that's a little different to the usual Beemers and Audis,
03:41 the Lexus IS could be the one for you.
03:44 Let's have a look at the all-important manufacturer's data.
04:10 And from the manufacturer's figures to those of our expert panel,
04:13 as we see how they've marked the Lexus in the top ten categories.
04:17 With an average score of 66%, the Lexus IS200 and 300 takes this year's ninth position.
04:32 Taking eighth position this year is the S60 from Volvo.
04:39 When you look at the curvy lines of the S60, it's hard to believe that all Volvo ever used to produce
04:45 were hard, angular shoeboxes on wheels.
04:47 Now, like the Lexus we've just seen, Volvo have gone for a sportier feel to their S60.
04:53 There's three petrol engines available, all of which are turbocharged,
04:56 and even the basic 2.0-litre will get you to 60 in just over eight seconds.
05:01 If you really want performance, though, the T5 offers a stonking 250 horsepower.
05:06 But it can make for interesting handling.
05:09 Where the S60 does fare extremely well is with its safety, and with its interior space.
05:16 After all, this is a Volvo, so your spacious cabin and passenger area is protected by the usual array of airbags,
05:23 as well as a host of electronic wizardry to help keep you on the tarmac.
05:27 So, let's check out those stats for the S60.
05:30 [Music]
05:55 Now, let's see how our expert panel have marked the Volvo.
05:59 [Music]
06:08 In eighth place, then, with an average 68%, the Volvo S60.
06:13 [Music]
06:16 In at seventh spot this year is the Rover 75.
06:20 If Volvo and Lexus are aiming their cars at the sporting executive drivers,
06:24 Rover are clearly aiming their 75 at the classic old-school executive.
06:29 As soon as you look at the 75, you can see Rover's smooth flowing lines and the bold, old English grille.
06:35 They're reminiscent of classic English models gone by.
06:38 The same goes for the interior, with heavy use of walnut effect trim and cream and chrome detailing on the dashboard.
06:45 It all has the feel of an English gentleman's car, and it's really well put together,
06:49 though models with cloth trim can look a little tame.
06:53 We've already said that the Rover 75 isn't aimed at the sporting drivers,
06:57 and that's equally apparent when you get out on the road.
07:00 The car is set up with comfort in mind, rather than cornering prowess,
07:04 and whilst it would be blown away on the B-roads by the likes of the Lexus and BMW,
07:08 out on the motorway, this is one of the most comfortable long-range cruisers in its class.
07:13 Let's take a look at the specifications, then, for the Rover 75.
07:17 [MUSIC]
07:27 [MUSIC]
07:47 And to find out how it scored, here's the panel's marks for the Rover.
07:52 [MUSIC]
08:01 So, with an average percentage of 69, the Rover 75 takes 7th place.
08:06 [MUSIC]
08:10 Just failing to make the top 5 in this year's chart is the Mercedes C-Class.
08:14 Now, if you ask anyone to name a luxury brand of car, chances are they'll say Mercedes.
08:19 But is the C-Class as good as the top-flight cars carrying the three-pointed stars?
08:23 Well, out on the road, the little Merc is a great performer.
08:26 On twisting roads, the C-Class is sharp and precise, with great steering and a good composed chassis.
08:32 Yet, get the car on the motorway, and it has the characteristics of a great long-range cruiser.
08:37 As many manufacturers are now doing, the C-Class shares the similar front-end design of its bigger brothers,
08:43 so there shouldn't be too much stigma in driving around in the cheaper car in the Mercedes line-up.
08:48 It's on the inside, though, that you can tell this is the baby of the Mercedes range.
08:52 Although everything's well put together, some of the materials used feel quite plasticky,
08:56 and they're not up to the usual Mercedes standard.
08:59 Having said that, the front space is quite impressive, with loads of space for executive bits and pieces.
09:04 But because the car is rear-wheel drive, the transmission tunnel does limit the rear passenger space.
09:10 Here are the facts and figures for the Mercedes C-Class range.
09:14 [Music]
09:42 And from the manufacturer's stats to those of our expert panel, as we see how they've scored the little Mercedes.
09:49 [Music]
09:58 With an average percentage of 71, then, the C-Class takes sixth place.
10:03 [Music]
10:06 So, we move up to the top five, and taking fifth place this year is the second Swede in our chart, the Saab 9-3.
10:13 Saab have done a fabulous job with the ride of the 9-3.
10:17 It's solid and refined, and it's one of the more enjoyable cars in this class to drive.
10:22 As well as sharing its country of origin with Volvo, the Saab also shares its level of safety kit,
10:27 with airbags and safety curtains at every corner, and a host of electronic gizmos,
10:31 such as traction control, brake force distribution, and an electronic stability program.
10:37 Although the Saab is an impressive piece of kit out on the road, you'll be just as impressed with it sat in a showroom,
10:42 as the interior of the 9-3 is a work of art, and is easily a match for the likes of BMW and Audi.
10:49 There's a real feeling of quality here, and the fit of all those components is first class.
10:54 And it's a cabin that five adults can easily appreciate, as the Saab is not only well-appointed,
10:58 but also very roomy, with a large boot to round it all off.
11:02 Well, before you all run off to go and sit in one in the Saab dealers,
11:06 have a look at the manufacturer's stats for the 9-3.
11:09 [Music]
11:38 And no doubt about it, the Saab 9-3 is a very impressive compact executive,
11:43 but let's see just how our expert panel have marked it in the five top ten auto show categories.
11:48 [Music]
12:00 Well, that's it for part one, but do keep watching,
12:03 as after the break, we'll reveal the top four compact executive cars for this year.
12:08 [Music]
12:15 Hello, and welcome back to the top ten auto show,
12:17 where this week we're running down the top ten compact executives of the year.
12:21 Without further ado, let's find out which cars make it into the top four.
12:25 [Music]
12:29 Taking fourth place this year is the Italian stallion, the Alfa Romeo 156.
12:34 Now, one thing you can never accuse Alfa Romeo of is going with the flow
12:38 when it comes to the looks of their cars.
12:40 Every model in the Alfa range is very unique, yet absolutely stunning,
12:44 with curves and details that leave you in no doubt of the car you're looking at.
12:48 And it's the unique aspect of Alfa's design that will really appeal to the executive
12:53 wanting to drive something that little bit different.
12:56 When it comes to the noisy bit, every one of the Alfa's petrol engines
13:00 delivers exciting performance.
13:02 Even the basic 1.6 has the famous rough Alfa exhaust note.
13:06 Though like many high-powered front-wheel drive cars,
13:09 the V6s can be a bit of a handful when pushed hard.
13:13 There is a diesel available, but the good news is
13:15 you don't have to sacrifice performance for economy,
13:18 so your executive workmates will be impressed,
13:20 as your diesel will still get to 60 in under 10 seconds.
13:24 The bad news, though, is that your car will be worth a lot less
13:27 than the German rivals after three years,
13:30 which is something to bear in mind if you're buying a compact executive privately.
13:34 So, let's take a look at the specifications for the Alfa 156.
13:38 [Music]
14:08 We know it's in fourth spot,
14:10 but here's how the men and motors panel have marked the Alfa.
14:13 [Music]
14:22 In fourth place, then, with an average percentage of 73,
14:26 the Alfa 156.
14:28 [Music]
14:31 We're into the top three now, and in third place, it's the MG ZT.
14:35 Now, whereas some of our top ten cars have subtly suggested a sporty performance,
14:41 the MG ZT shouts it before you've even put the key in the ignition.
14:45 Though it shares the same body shell as the Rover 75,
14:49 the observant of you may notice the in-your-face body kit and wire mesh grille,
14:53 and, of course, the huge alloy wheels and low-profile tyres.
14:58 The interior, too, is very different from the pipe-and-slippers interior of the Rover 75,
15:02 with cream dials and fake wood being replaced by a lovely combination of aluminium and graphite.
15:08 Out on the road, the ZT feels very taut and composed,
15:12 as the MG engineers have done a great job in making over the Rover 75's platform.
15:17 Though the ride may be a little too harsh for some,
15:19 on the twisty roads, this really is an exciting car to drive,
15:23 and the top-spec 190-horsepower V6 is the perfect partner for this sporty setup.
15:29 Let's take a look at the specifications for the ZT.
15:58 It's getting close in the top three, but here's how our expert panel have marked the MG.
16:03 With an average percentage of 74, the MG ZT takes third place.
16:18 There was only one point separating the two top places,
16:25 but just pipped to second this year is the Audi A4.
16:29 Now, what's that old saying? Ah, yes, you get what you pay for.
16:33 Well, Audis certainly aren't cheap, but boy, are they good.
16:37 As if made from one block of material, the A4 feels incredibly solid,
16:42 be it from the boot lid to the glovebox door,
16:44 and you can easily see why Audi's considered the benchmark for build quality in the automotive world.
16:49 Of all of this week's cars, the A4 has the widest range of engines available,
16:54 and though the 1.8 turbo unit is probably the best all-rounder,
16:58 there's a tax-relieving 1.6, but don't expect it to provide thrilling performance.
17:03 When it comes to the ride of the A4, it has to be said that it's very firm, which won't suit everyone,
17:08 although the handling is first-class and the car has great cornering abilities,
17:12 the firmness can be a little jarring on uneven roads.
17:16 Thank goodness, then, that Audi seats are always supremely comfortable.
17:20 Overall, then, there's no doubt in the fact that the Audi A4 is one of the best compact executive cars you can buy.
17:27 Let's take a look at those stats.
17:29 [Music]
17:33 [Music]
17:36 [Music]
17:39 [Music]
17:44 [Music]
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18:03 [Music]
18:06 There's only 1% between this car and our top compact executive,
18:13 so let's see how our panel have marked the A4.
18:16 [Music]
18:19 In second place, then, with 77%, the Audi A4,
18:28 which means that in first place is... well, you'll find out in just a minute,
18:33 as first, here's a quick recap of the cars we've seen so far.
18:37 [Music]
18:40 In at number 10 this year is the Jaguar X-Type.
18:44 At number 9 is the Lexus IS200 and 300.
18:48 Taking 8th place is the Volvo S60.
18:52 This year's 7th spot goes to the Rover 75.
18:56 In 6th place is the Mercedes C-Class.
19:00 On to the top 5 and in 5th is the Saab 9-3.
19:04 At number 4 is Alfa's 156.
19:07 Making it number 3 this year is the MG ZT.
19:11 And in 2nd place is the Audi A4.
19:15 [Music]
19:18 Which means it's yet another top 10 first place for BMW,
19:23 this time with their 3 Series.
19:26 For years now, BMW have been seen as one of the executive brands to have.
19:31 If Audi set the benchmark for interior build quality,
19:34 then BMW certainly set it for ride and handling.
19:38 Whether on A and B roads or out on the motorway,
19:40 the 3 Series is a supreme performer, being comfortable, solid, yet nimble,
19:45 and exciting at the same time.
19:47 Once inside your Beamer, you will be impressed by the supremely well-appointed
19:51 and well-equipped cabin.
19:53 And like the Audi, all of the switches and controls feel like they'd last a lifetime.
19:57 There are a few areas where the 3 Series has been bettered by some of the cars in our top 10.
20:02 Firstly, with value, as cars such as the Rover 75 and the Alfa 156
20:06 do offer more kit and better performance at the cheaper end of the price spectrum.
20:11 And secondly, with its practicality, as the 3 Series is certainly a tight cabin
20:16 when compared to the competition.
20:18 Perhaps this is a small trade-off when you look at the car's overall performance.
20:22 Let's have a quick look at the specifications of the winning 3 Series.
20:27 [MUSIC]
20:30 [MUSIC]
20:57 We know it's the winner, but here's how our expert panel have scored the BMW
21:01 in the top 10 auto show categories.
21:04 [MUSIC]
21:18 Good evening. It's Rob Ovens, Managing Director of Men & Motors,
21:22 and I'm delighted to be here with Phil Houlton, Marketing Director of BMW.
21:26 I'm about to present him with the award for the top compact executive car, the BMW 3 Series,
21:32 a very well-deserved award chosen by the Men & Motors panel. Well done, Phil.
21:37 Thank you very much indeed. Thank you very much indeed.
21:40 I have to say that this is our best-selling car, bar none,
21:44 and it's really important for us to make sure that we keep some clear blue water
21:48 between ourselves and the competition, so particularly good that we've won this one.
21:51 Thanks very much indeed.
21:52 It's a very well-deserved award, and many congratulations.
21:55 Thank you.
21:56 It's congratulations then to BMW for another first place in this year's top 10 auto show.
22:02 I'm Dave Lee Travis. Thanks for watching. I'll see you again soon for another top 10 auto show.
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