BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 18th Jun 2003
A HUGE seller in Europe but not here, the Belgium-built Ford deserves better. It combines excellent driving dynamics with comfort, space, practicality, refinement and good equipment levels. If the sedan's big boot is not enough, the versatile station wagon should fill most requirements.
MITSUBISHI MAGNA 4D SEDAN (1996-1997)
OVERLOOKED and now discontinued, the Magna 2.4 is like the grunty V6 versions except it has a sweet, smooth, adequately powerful and surprisingly torquey four-cylinder engine. Low equipment levels are offset by vast interior room and huge luggage area. Built Aussie tough.
HONDA ACCORD 4D SEDAN (1989-1997)
THE Japanese-built Accord offers excellent performance, fuel economy and reliability thanks to smart and efficient Honda technology. Cabin is roomy but dull while grey rinse image and high parts and servicing costs erode appeal. Late 1995 brought significant upgrades.
PEUGEOT 405 4D SEDAN (1991-1996)
TIMELESS styling plus torquey performance, good fuel economy, great chassis and strong touring ability make the 405 an inspired choice. It is also practical, well built, bug-free, comfortable and long-lasting. Parts and servicing can be costly.