4car rating: 5 stars
Body Styles: Saloon, Hatchback, Estate
Engines: 1.8, 2.0, 2.5 V6, 2.0 TD
Prices: £14,595 to £21,395


The simple reason that Ford's Mondeo estate is the best in this class is that it retains all the credentials of the rest of the Mondeo range. It's pretty much as good to drive as the other models, while its rear-suspension takes up less room than that of the saloon and hatchback to maximise luggage space. In addition to claimed class-leading rear seat space, this means the boot can hold up to 1,020-litres of luggage, loaded to the tops of the seats. And that's good enough for us to make it our choice.



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