THE large family car class is filled with great machinery these days, and a large number of them have won awards.

But before you drive off in a Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Insignia or VW Passat, testgo for a drive a Honda Accord.

Build quality doesn't come any better than Honda's and reliability always comes as standard.

I recently drove the 2.2 diesel saloon, but there is also a swish and practical five door estate if you need more space without losing anything.

The 2.2 diesel is a marvellous engine - smooth, and powerful enough to give plenty of driving pleasure even in lowest 150bhp form.

It has loads of low speed pull and still has plenty left for good acceleration in sixth gear on the motorway.

Comfort is excellent over all surfaces giving very relaxed long distance cruising, yet is still has great handling and roadholding for plenty of fun on a twisting road.

ES spec at the lower end of the range does not want for much but make sure you have all you need.

Refinement is superb, and space excellent, with room for three in the back even over longer journeys and a large boot that should take all their kit.

10/10

Ford Mondeo