Toyota will launch the new MR2 on April 5 priced £18,450, almost £4,000 less than the outgoing model. The price reduction is possible because this is a significantly smaller car, a further consequence of which is that luggage space is minimal. MR2, previously with lift-out roof panels, is now a roadster aimed at the MGF and Mazda MX-5 market. Toyota claims it offers better value than both on specification-adjusted pricing. Standard equipment includes 15-inch alloys, CD player, twin airbags, ABS, remote locking and electric windows. The hood is manual, with no power option.

Proton is, yet again, revising its UK range. The Compact is to be known as Satria and the Persona the Wira, names used in native Malaysia. The revised models are to keep the same price levels, although the entry level £6,750 Compact will disappear, with the cheapest Satria (1.3 Li) priced £7,999. Specification levels are improved, noise levels are down and most cars have re-engineered suspension from Lotus. The new Protons will be introduced gradually over the coming months.

Fiat has introduced Trofeo special editions of its Brava and Bravo hatchbacks. Based around the SX models, they gain CD autochanger, ABS, passenger and side airbags, electric mirrors, leather-trimmed steering wheel, new interior trim, front fog lights and rear spoiler, adding value calculated at £1,400. With a 1.2-litre 80bhp engine prices are £11,204, a premium of £250 over the SX. The 1.6-litre models are £300 more, representing a saving of close to £500 over the 1.6SX.