(8 votes, average: 3.38 out of 5)
Loading ...Ford Mondeo Vs Citroen C5 Vs Mazda 6 Vs Vauxhall Vectra
What car Magazine puts the big 4 family cars through there paces and here are the results.
“Ford’s family car the Mondeo’s reign continues. It was a tough choice between the top contenders, but the Mondeo nudges it.”
The C5, Mondeo and 6 are all so good that each presented a strong case for winning here. after a great deal of deliberation, though, our vote goes to the Mondeo.
It might not have the emotional appeal of the Citroen C5 or the Mazda 6, but the Ford wins you over by doing everything to an exceptionally high standard. You’ll pay more if you pay full retail but most dealers will negotiate to less especially if sourced online. In the long run we think the Mondeo experience and all round excellence makes it the winner.
The runner up is Citroen’s new C5. If you’re after maximum motorway comfort and a healthy dose of style, head for your nearest Citroen dealer. The C5 sets a new standard for refinement in this class, thanks to its silky smooth engine and incredibly quiet cabin. It’s also practical and well equiped, but the new C5’s numb steering lets it down, and the cabin is neither as driver friendly nor as spacious as the Ford Mondeo.
The Mazda 6 takes third spot. It’s as good to drive as it is to look at, its roomy and should prove to be reliable. It also makes sound financial sense for both low contract hire and list prices.
Its ‘come-on-lets go faster’ attitude will really suit some buyers, but we think that the Mazda’s fidgety ride and below par refinement limit its appeal too heavily, particulalrly when these cars are likely to cover a lot of miles.
The Vectra finishes fourth, which is perhaps not surprising when its due to be replaced later this year. It’s not disgrased though but is clearly outclassed. If you accept that the trade off for its low price is that it feels off the pace compared with its newer rivals, you’re unlikely to be too disappointed.
1ST
Ford Mondeo
For : Unflappable whatever the road or conditions; smooth, flexible engine; vast passenger and boot space; solidly-built cabim; lots of kit.
Against : Highest contract hire and company car tax bills; week residual values; size and rear visability can make parking tricky
Verdict : Its been given a real fright here. But the Mondeo’s superb all round ability mean its still our favourite family car. What Car Best Family car.
2ND
Citroen C5
For : Sets a new class standard for refinement; smooth, flexible engine; sleek looks; well equipped.
Against : Numb steering; driver enviroment could be better; least rear headroom and boot space.
Verdict : Class leading refinement, sleek styling and a great engine rockets the Citroen C5 towards the top of the pile.
3RD
MAZDA 6
For : Stunning looks; agile handling; stylish and practical cabin; cheap to buy and run; strong residual values.
Against : Engine falls a little short for refinement and flexibility; ride can be fidgety at times; rear visability issues.
Verdict : A hugely appealing blend of low ownership costs, smart looks and fine driving mannersÂ
4TH
Vauxhall Vectra
For : Comfy motorway cruiser; cheap after massive discounts; low contract hire rates.
Against : Feels dated compared to rivals in many ways due to be replaced soon very poor residual values
Verdict : Still a good motorway car, but huge discounts cant hide the fact the Vauxhall Vectra feels old.