A slightly strange verdict from Auto Express. Everything they said in the test suggested that the A1 was the winner, but in the final verdict they said:-
"When we sat down to compile our verdict, the A1 was in pole position. But the more we tried to justify the first place, the more we realised it was our winner for the wrong reasons. Cars in the premium supermini sector should be fun and full of character - and that's where it comes up short."
They also said (of the A1) "There's no doubt it's the wisest investment, but you'll never take the A1 out for a spin just for the hell of it"
That's fine with me! I am buying it for the build-quality, the top-notch cabin, the residuals, the economy, the smart but not too edgey looks and hopefully for reliability and comfort - and yes, of course, the badge. They criticised the understated look, but in my view understated looks don't date badly whereas way-out styles usually look pretty silly after a few years.
I like wise investments!
I'm not blown away by the Scuba Blue example though, I have to say.