VW FOX

Designed to replace the Lupo, this is VW's entry level vehicle, and goes on sale on 28th april 2006. Longer than the Lupo at 3.83 metres it is a three door hatch with a choice of two engines and two trim levels. There is a 'Fox' and an 'Urban Fox', though this one doesn't root through your bin bags overnight! Originally designed for a South American market, it has been modified for Europe and falls into the A00 or city class and will go head to head with the KA, Peugeot 107 and Citroen C1. Despite being larger all round than the Lupo it is actually cheaper. Size wise it is 299mm longer, 21mm wider, 85mm higher and has more luggage space as well.

Looks wise it features the VW radiator grille which is black, has a high waistline, and a high roof section around the A pillar. The doors reach into the high roof line to emulate those on an MPV, so that it easier to get into and out.

Inside, because of the height, you can sit higher than in most class of this class, and there is plenty of elbow room and legroom in the back. It is a four seater and the rear bench features cupholders and a storage compartment and there is an option whereby the bench can be slid 15cm lengthways to assist with the luggage space. It's a functional dash with a simple layout and things such as mirror controls are manual, but you are talking about vehicles with a basic on the road price starting at just £7,190. Even then you still get ABS, remote central locking, drivers and front passenger airbags, drivers seat height adjustment and front electric windows. There's even a radio and CD with six speakers.

Luggage wise the Fox can open wider for you than a request from a dentist with the rear hatch opening to over 2 metres and a low loading sill at 743mm whilst the boot will open to 1.02m wide.

The engine choice is either a 1.2 or 1.4 litre five speed manual with output of either 55 or 75PS and these result in top speeds of 92 and 104mph respectively. Consumption figures come out at 36.2, 55.4 and 46.3 mpg and 32.1, 49.6 and 41.5 mpg and having driven both models I can say that both power units show plenty of willing, whilst the emissions are 146 and 163.

The Fox is of course a small car, and appeals to a certain type of customer. The word Urban is a giveaway and this is ideal for the city, with the clever use of space and generous storage areas, you can shop and still squeeze in to a small space outside your door.