These are the first...
These are the first official pictures of the production version of the car - and it looks very similar to the concept that Mercedes unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show last September.
Completely new models...
Completely new models included Fiat"s Grande Punto, the Renault Clio, Toyota"s Yaris and the VW Fox. They were joined by revised versions of Ford"s Fiesta and Fusion, the Citroen C3 and Hyundai"s Getz. Together, the newcomers account for more than 60 per cent of the UK"s small car market.
There were also a host of concepts pointing the way to future small vehicles, including Peugeot"s 20Cup and the Mazda Sassou. And of course, the stunning MINI Traveller, previewed elsewhere.
For many, the star was undoubtedly the Renaultsport Clio. With an aggressive bodykit, wide track and a rumoured 200bhp 2.0-litre engine, the hot hatch - offering 150mph and 0-60mph in under seven seconds - looks like setting new standards among performance cars. The standard three-door model is now on sale, so expect a production version, possibly badged RS, this time next year.
Meanwhile, Ford"s facelifted Fiesta will launch later this year with bolder headlights, a new grille and uprated interior. The changes apply across the range, including the 148bhp ST hot hatch and Fiesta-based Fusion MPV.