In the next phase of the competition a 33-person jury - consisting of motoring journalists - will put the finalists through a thorough test. The winner of the competition will be announced in March next year.
Volkswagen Polo 1.4 TDi
Toyota Corolla 140i GLS
Citroen C3 1.6
Opel Corsa 1.8 GSi
Mercedes-Benz E270CDi
Peugeot 307XS SW
Mini Cooper S
The seven finalists (in no specific order) are: