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Smart, for four

I'm looking for a car that will take four people and their luggage on holiday to southern Spain. I need comfortable seats and a smooth ride. Cruise control is essential. In the past I've done the journey in a Vauxhall Omega, which for me was perfect. I now have a 2004 Passat, which, although being a nice car, is not to my liking for long journeys. I find that I can't drive for more than two hours without having to stop to stretch my legs. The seats are leather and seem quite hard. I've considered a Citroen C5 or a Ford Mondeo. Any suggestions as to a suitable car would be very welcome.

Asked on 29 December 2012 by JR, Hackney

Answered by Honest John
BMW F30 320dED. I've done 610 miles in a day in one without a twinge. In the F30, BMW has corrected all the criticisms of the E90, including the slightly offset driving position. The F30 320ED is near perfect in all respects, rides decently on 205/60 R16 non runflat tyres, and mine has done a genuine 65mpg (calculated) over 4,500 miles.

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A better drive and better equipped than the previous Passat. Comfortable and has more status than, say, a Ford Mondeo.
Brilliant to drive, powerful and fuel-efficient engines, good interior space and practicality.