What Car? Used Car of the Year - Best small family car

£4000 to £6000
Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec 5dr ’99/V, 53k, £4865
This year, just as in 2003, there was never any doubt that a Focus would win this category. The only debate was over which version.

In the end, we plumped for the 1.6 Zetec again. Not only is it the easiest model to find, the sporty trim will make it easy to sell on in the future. Yes, the LX costs much the same and has standard air-conditioning, but we’re confident that the huge choice out there means you could find a Zetec with optional air-con fitted.

As for the strengths of the Focus, well, where do you start? As our panel said: ‘This is a cracking car – everything about it is good.’ For starters, there’s the drive, of course, still a benchmark for its class; practicality is excellent, with plenty of space inside for a family; and there are no question marks over reliability. The Ford has already proved itself to be one of the most solid cars on British roads.

Even at four years old, the Ford will neither look nor feel its age, and there are no worries about buying a car with above-average mileage, as the Focus takes miles well.

Depreciation won’t be a worry for used buyers, either. Like any mass-market car, the biggest drop in value comes in the first 18 months. Buy a car at this age, and it will lose value only gradually.

Even after the arrival of the new Focus, our panel can’t see that changing, either. In the immediate future, they’re sure this model will still be in demand.

Also consider
Toyota Corolla 1.6 GS 5dr ’01/51, 36k, £5521

Up to £4000
Vauxhall Astra 1.4 LS 5dr ’98/S, 61k, £3499
There was never any question that the Astra was the number one choice at this price. Its breadth of abilities swings the vote. The cabin’s spacious, and it’s well built and dependable, as long as the 40,000-mile cambelt change has been carried out. With a decent drive and 40mpg capability from the 1.4-litre engine, it’s an unbeatable package for the price.

Also consider
Ford Escort 1.6 Finesse 5dr ’00/W, 49k, £3645

Over £6000
Honda Civic 1.6 5dr ’01/51, 36k, £6370
Now that its used values are dropping, the Honda Civic looks a much better bargain. Blending the best of a small hatch and an MPV, it provides huge space inside and, in this SE trim, plenty of equipment. It’s a very pleasant drive, too, and the 1.6 engine can return as much as 40mpg.

Also consider
Renault Megane 1.6 Dynamique 5dr ’02/02, 30k, £7235