Mercedes - A Class

It's hardly exclusive or fashionable now, but A-Class still looks and feels special, with clever features that make it highly practical. But you do pay a lot for that badge; even more if you demand a high level of specification. That apart, it manages to fit a family sized cabin into a very compact package.
The rear seats and boot are not big but they're adequate. The moveable/removable rear seats do help matters, and there are also a slightly more spacious long-wheelbase versions. The cabin is bright and feels spacious, helped by the excellent view out.
There's a wide choice of durable, well proven petrol and turbodiesel engines; they're generally very economical. Possibly the only major disappointment is the ordinary build quality.
Driving an A Class is an assured but unremarkable experience, though it can be upset by sidewinds and rough ground. Electronic aids mean that it handles safely.