Large Cars and Estates

THE CAR The Ford Mondeo was once synonymous with a very middle of the road reputation, however in 2020 that has all changed. The Ford Mondeo has a great reputation for drive and reliability, it has appealing modern lines and ticks a lot of practical boxes too. It’s a great family car. THE DRIVE For such a big car the Mondeo feels nimble and agile on the road, it eases round corners and can tackle a twisty country road as well as it does a motorway. There is minimum wind and road noise and the diesel engines are surprisingly hushed. Steering is confident and you’ll feel secure in any driving conditions.

COMFORT AND SAFETY You will be comfortable and well supported over long journeys and there is plenty of adjustment in the seats. The touchscreen infotainment system is clear and easy to use, but you will probably want to opt for a higher end model to upgrade the interior plastics to higher quality materials inside.

THE CAR As with most BMWs, this executive saloon is aesthetically pleasing. It is sleek, modern and fun to drive. The premium feel is something BMW does very well and the 3 Series is no different. It has been a longstanding contender in the luxury saloon category for many years. THE DRIVE The 3 Series handles fantastically well on the road, the steering is precise, the engines are powerful and the M Sport versions give great cornering skills. There is plenty of grip on all the models and there are plenty of engine options to choose from. If it’s speed you are after, the 330d has a sixcylinder engine that will get you 0-62mph in just 5.5secs. COMFORT AND SAFETY The plush interior is just what you would expect from a premium brand. The seats are supportive and there is plenty of adjustment. The infotainment screen looks sharp and is very easy to use, controlled either by touchscreen or by a dial. It achieved the full five stars in the Euro NCAP rating. Fuel Type: Diesel Average MPG: 61.4 0-62mph: 7.5secs CO2 Emissions (g/km): 121 Boot Capacity (litres): 500 SPECIFICATIONS

THE CAR This reasonably priced estate is a serious contender in its respective category. It offers a cavernous 1,395-litre load area when the seats are down, it boasts a quality finish inside and the SE trim gets you rear parking sensors, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and air conditioning. THE DRIVE The Fabia Estate is a joy to drive. It has light, precise steering, it feels secure on the road, but is also fairly nippy for an estate. It is quiet and smooth to drive, handling well on all road surfaces. There is no diesel option, but the turbocharged petrol engines are a great choice. COMFORT AND SAFETY The interior won’t set the world alight, but for its affordable price tag you get a pleasant dashboard set up that is clear and easy to navigate. Passengers are treated to an abundance of space and storage points are plentiful. It comes with plenty of safety equipment and optional safety packages can be added.

THE CAR Based on the hatchback version, the SEAT Leon Estate offers an attractive option for families who are going against the SUV trend at the moment. With plenty of options on the trim, there is something to suit everyone. Space is at a premium, so you can fit everything you need to travel in here. THE DRIVE You don’t need to opt for the top-of-the-range engine to get a great drive here. The 1.0-litre petrol engine will do everything you need it to, and more. It has great acceleration and control on the road, and the steering doesn’t disappoint. It’s not the most exciting ride, but it will get you from A to B in a respectable fashion. COMFORT AND SAFETY Comfort is key in the SEAT Leon. Almost everything is adjustable to ensure you can find your optimum driving position, including the centre armrest. Visibility is great and the controls are laid out easily and clearly. The seating is comfortable and lumbar support is also included. Fuel Type: Petrol Average MPG: 58.9 0-62mph: 10.1secs CO2 Emissions (g/km): 107 Boot Capacity (litres): 587 SPECIFICATIONS