Guilty Pleasures: The cars we have a soft spot for

Guilty Pleasures: The cars we have a soft spot for highlights how vehicles that drew criticism at launch can still win over drivers for comfort, character, or unique design. The BMW iX faced mockery for its long, “rabbit-toothed” kidney grille and unusual trapezoid front panels, yet it offers an electrochromic sunroof and a Bowers & Wilkins 4D audio system. In xDrive40 form it produces 322bhp, delivering strong fun once underway. The Renault Avantime, launched in 2001, is remembered for its uncommon MPV-coupe shape and a 3.0-litre V6. The Volvo 240 “Flying Brick” Turbo uses 153bhp, while the Daihatsu Copen couples an 850kg weight with a 68bhp turbo 0.6-litre engine and an electric folding roof.