Used Car of the Year 2008 - Family cars

Winner: Ford Mondeo 1.8i 16v LX 5dr
Year: '05/55
Price: £4580

With the latest Mondeo in the new-car limelight, its older relative is taking the used-car honours.

Our judges wrestled long and hard with the dilemma of petrol versus diesel, but in the end it all came down to value – and the petrol version won.

The 1.8-litre Mondeo hatchback model is very well priced on the used market, as most buyers gravitate to the diesel versions. Don't get us wrong – the 2.0-litre diesel is a fine car, and a good choice if you're going to do a high mileage.

However, the cheaper purchase price of the petrol model, and the lower cost of unleaded, make it a sure-fire hit.

For just over £4500 you get a sharply styled hatchback that handles so well you may forget you're driving such a large car.

Large? Oh yes – there's excellent space for five, while the boot will swallow most items without complaint.

The controls are logical and well laid out, while there's plenty of storage space.

Which model?
The LX is the base model, but it still gets air-con, front electric windows, cruise control and remote central locking.

However, if you want alloys you'll need to choose a car with the Zetec trim.

As for other Fords, car supermarkets are a good place to find Mondeos, but don't forget about the franchised dealerships. For older examples, use classified ads and the internet to track down well-priced private sales.

The Mondeo isn't just cheap to buy, it's a bargain to run, too.

Ford dealers are generally a reasonable place to get any maintenance work done, but it's easy to service and there are plenty of independents that can also do the work.

Runners-up
BMW 320d ES 4dr '05/55 £12,360
Mazda 6 1.8 TS 5dr '04/53 £4310
Nissan Primera 1.8 SVE 5dr '03/03 £3955
VW Passat 1.9 TDI S 4dr '05/55 £8665