2022 has been a year of big changes in the car industry. We’ve seen endless announcements about brands’ commitment to electric cars and a host of new EVs launched. We’ve also seen famous names - Fiesta, Focus - consigned to the scrapheap and even sports car legend Ferrari announce plans for an SUV.
All of this has taken place in a climate of strained supply and economic doom and gloom but the new car market has soldiered on bravely, with dozens of new models launched over the last 12 months, some great, some not so good.
Like all the best “best of” lists, our rundown of the top cars of 2022 is entirely unscientific and subjective but these are the 10 cars that have stood out for us over the last year.
5. Range Rover
If the Jogger shows the surprising amount you can get for less than £20,000, the all-new Range Rover is a demonstration of what you can have for five times that. Destined to grace the garages of everyone from royalty to rap stars, the fifth-generation Range Rover is an irresistible temple to luxury and technology with an exquisite interior, understated exterior and refinement worthy of a £100,000+ price tag. | Land Rover
6. Kia Sportage
Like the Civic, the Sportage is here because it absolutely nails its brief of offering sensible family motoring. While some buyers are looking for the thrills of the GR86 or the luxury of the Range Rover, far more want a spacious, practical and well-equipped car that won’t break the bank at the dealership or fuel pump. The Sportage offers all that, plus a comprehensive range of drivetrains and striking new looks. | Kia
7. Citroen Ami
Alright, the Ami isn’t technically a car but it’s still one of the most interesting things we drove this year. Citroen’s tiny electric plastic pod isn’t without its flaws but when everyone else is building two-tonne electric SUVs that’ll cover 300 miles it is an innovative approach to the need for compact zero-emission urban transport. It’s got generous space for two, enough range and speed to cope with a day’s city driving and looks like nothing else on the roads. | Citroen
8. Kia EV6
Yes, we’ve gone from decrying the two-tonne electric SUV to praising it, but it’s all about different cars for different purposes. The EV6 is an example of how to use EV technology to best effect, offering absolutely acres of space for families in a futuristic looking vehicle that can cover long distances with ease. At the heart of its appeal is a realistic and reliable 300-mile range, ultra rapid charging and a driving experience that won’t bore you to tears. There’s even a 522bhp GT version if you’re feeling silly. | Kia