Estates - part two
* Our guide to what to buy * Get the most for your money * Top fives in key categories...
Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi Zetec
Price 22,240
Target Price 19,428
Average economy 47.9mpg
CO2 156g/km
Like the Mondeo hatchback, the estate is great to drive, having a supple ride and refined handling.
Carrying capacity isn't compromised, either there's oceans of leg- and shoulder-room for passengers front and back and the boot is huge and easy to load.
If you need to more space, you can drop the split-folding rear seats to boost total capacity to 1685 litres.
BMW 520d Touring SE
Price 29,440
Target Price 26,802
Economy 53.3mpg
CO2 140g/km
For an executive-class estate it has to be the 5 Series.
BMWs trademark handling and refinement, combined with generous load space, guarantee class and capability. The 5's individualistic styling also means youll stand out from the crowd.
You may be tempted by the 2.5-litre diesel, but the 2.0litre is substantially cheaper to buy and continues to be lighter on your pocket - adding much better fuel economy to cheaper road tax and better resale values.
Hyundai i30 Estate 1.6 CRDi Comfort
Price 13,995
Target Price 13,077
Economy 57.6mpg
CO2 155g/km
The i30 is a compact estate that'll ensure more of your hard-earned remains in your pocket.
The boot is a decent size and easy to load, and underfloor storage is a welcome bonus. The 1.6-litre diesel version is a no-brainer, thanks to its impressive fuel economy - yet it doesnt cost substantially more than the petrol alternative.
Good equipment levels also increase value for money climate control, all-round electric windows, an MP3 connection and stability control come as standard.
