Driver Verdicts Ease of Driving rated

Which cars are the easiest to drive? And which are a royal pain because they're hard to park or have poor visibility? You've told us just how easy it is to drive your car - and here are the results. 

Ultra-functional: Skoda Yeti

Best 5 cars for ease of driving

Skoda Yeti (2009-)

Driver rating 94.4%

You say: I especially like the good driving position, nice gearbox and light clutch on my diesel model.

We say: Anyone who thinks Skodas are sub-standard should drive a Yeti. Like all other modern Skodas, it's great to drive - and the 10.5m turning circle is excellent for a 4x4.

Toyota iQ (2008-)

Driver rating 93.6%

You say: For a city runaround it can't be beaten. It's like driving the front half of a large luxury car.

We say: The ultra-tight turning circle is a boon for town driving, but the car's width and restricted rear visibility take a little of the shine off. 

Mini (2001-2007)

Driver rating 92.2%

You say: I used to drive go karts for fun. This car is just as good and ideal for driving in London.

We say: The Mini has a superb driving position, thanks to the well-sited gear lever and multi-adjustable steering wheel.

Fiat Panda (2004-2011)

Driver rating 92.2%

You say: Great on narrow country lanes and in tight parking spaces. Also great in the snow last year, even without winter tyres.

We say: The power steering has an extra-light ‘city’ mode, which makes parking and tight manoeuvring a doddle.

Mini (2007-)

Driver rating 92.0%

You say: After 23 months of ownership, we've only had one minor fault. Every time we drive it, it's like being out with a friend.

We say: In keeping with the original 1959 Mini’s virtues, the current Mini gives go-kart-like responses and its compact dimensions make it a great city car.

 

Cumbersome: Land Rover Discovery 2

Worst 5 cars for ease of driving

Vauxhall Zafira (2005-)

Driver rating 65.0%

You say: As well as being uninspiring to drive, the major blind spots front and rear are potentially dangerous.

We say: The Zafira’s 12m turning circle is way too big, making parking a real challenge. 

Honda Civic (2006-)

Driver rating 64.7%

You say: The rear spoiler completely blocks following traffic. And the lack of rear wash/wipe causes problems when you're parking in rain or snow - you have to wipe the window with your hand to see out. Rear parking sensors are essential.

We say: The Civic’s large turning circle can cause problems when manoeuvring in tight spaces.

Toyota Verso (2004-2009)

Driver rating 63.4%

You say: The gearbox has seriously jerked from day one when changing from first to second gear. It drives me crazy.

We say: Make sure you can live with the poor turning circle and thick rear pillars before you buy one. 

Volvo S60 (2000-2008)

Driver rating 62.9%

You say: Has the turning circle of an aircraft carrier, and poor rear visibility when reversing/parking.

We say: Light steering and sure-footed cornering inspire confidence, even though this is no BMW in handling terms.

Land Rover Discovery 2 (1999-2004)

Driver rating 62.0%

You say: A serious purchase error. It's cost me hundreds of pounds because, the dealer says, I 'didn't use it enough'. Land Rover never advised me that I should do a minimum number of miles to avoid the car 'seizing up'. 

We say: A cumbersome old boat to drive, and a liability in so many ways. 

More on this...

 

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