I had a Honda Accord diesel estate as a new company car in 1995. I would recommend a long test drive - I found the driving position uncomfortable due to offset pedals - not noticeable until you've done a few miles. This was my first diesel and I found the engine reluctant to settle to a steady speed. I now have a diesel Citroen which I much prefer. My experience of Honda dealers was not a happy one. Thousands seem to rave about Hondas, frankly I would not have another.

My 04 Accord i-CDTi has been pretty good. As in, it has never let me down; it's comfortable enough (I'm a slim 6'3"); fast enough; big enough; economical enough (about 45 mpg when I last checked); cheap enough to service (relatively speaking); and I think looks quite smart/modern still. The dealer has been good and I always get a courtesy Jazz or Civic when it goes in for a service.

Bad bits? It has got through front tyres every 10k miles. The alloys are bubbling - although I do live near the sea. The paint seems to scratch/chip a little too easily. It's a good drive without being exciting.

The trade-in was a 1992 Volvo 850 2.5 20v, which drank fuel but otherwise I wish I'd kept. The engine was a real peach which made nice noises under full throttle, and it was supremely comfortable. That never let me down either. Watching 'Wallander' recently made me all nostalgic for the old 850, which I let go with just 70k on the clock. Silly boy!