By comparison to the Ford, Honda know a thing or two about quality. This car has a similar milage to the Ford when I thankfully unloaded it, and all that's gone wrong with it is that the air conditioning needed recharging.

This isn't unusual, but it was annoying to find that having filled it once, the gas escaped. The firm I use (and recommend) Polar in Prestwich, knew that there was a new part required, ordered it, and got a concession from Honda. Once fitted, the air-con has worked like the rest of the car. If it didn't use consumables, it would be perfect!

First question when booking it in for a service, is always, "Is there anything wrong with the vehicle?" and always the answer is No.

The strange thing is, it's built in Britain. But Honda apply the same rigid standards here as they do in Japan. I know a little about this because the company I work for, supplies to the interior trim industry, who in turn supply the car companies. And let me assure you, they are demanding. But when the end product is as good as this, then you can see where all the effort has gone.

So well done to the people at Swindon!