4car rating: 4 stars
Body Styles: Saloon, Hatchback, Coupe
Engines: 1.8, 2.0, 2.2, 2.3 TD
Prices: £14,495 to £21,495


This is a tough category to call. The Ford Mondeo, Renault Laguna and VW Passat also make good cases for themselves, but in the end it's the Honda's quietness and engine refinement that seals it for us. The Accord's driving position is not as multi-adjustable as any of the aforementioned, but only the Renault approaches the Accord in terms of ride comfort. Aside from that, the Renault's engines are no match for the Honda's units either. So even though Honda doesn't offer a large capacity six-cylinder unit or a diesel, we rate it.



Other recommended cars:

• Best Budget Buy: Skoda Octavia
• Best for Interior Room: Ford Mondeo
• Best for Safety: Renault Laguna
• Best for Comfort: Honda Accord
• Best Driver's Car: Subaru Impreza
• Best Image: Volkswagen Passat
• Best Diesel: Volkswagen Passat
• Best Estate: Ford Mondeo