HONDA fours were the smoothest and most refined engines on the market for years and some of the other car makers are still trying to catch up.

The 2.4-litre in the Honda Accord is as smooth and powerful as BMW's six cylinder 2.5-litre.

As well as this petrol with an excellent 198bhp, there is also a 2.0-litre with a very good 153bhp which is no slouch.

For most though, the pick of the range is probably the 2.2 turbo diesel with 147bhp, or 177 in the Type S, which is smooth, quiet and very powerful.

There is rarely any need to push the engines hard because they have great response and pull hard from low revs.

Handling is top-of-the-tree in both the saloon and estate, with little roll, wonderful balance, vast grip and safe, sure road holding.

These road manners match the engine's verve perfectly and it is a hugely enjoyable car over short or long journeys.

The ride is excellent at speed, but does get a little jittery in town.

Top models have excellent touch screen sat nav, climate control and an electric sunroof - you get one one or the other with most car makers.

It has automatic lights and wipers, lovely wood veneer, traction control and the automatic gearbox is one of the best you can buy.