What is the best day-to-day car?

Well things have changed a lot over the past few years, and this question has become harder and harder to answer truthfully as each year passes. This is because drivers needs have changed and there's so, so many options out there from the fuel efficient hatchbacks to the slightly more practical sedans, from city-crowding crossovers to pavement-crawling SUV's. The choices are endless. Let's just jump back in time for a minute though. Jump back to 2010 and ask the question again, and the answer is a BMW 320D (E46) - arguably. Why, you ask?

1 - It's Cheap!

BMW stopped production of the E46 in 2005, making the car no less than 5 years old. This means that after it has lost its initial value after being driven off the showroom floor, you stand a good chance of finding one in a good condition with low miles on the clock. And because they are such popular cars, maintenance isn't too bad either.

2 - It's Practical!

With 4 doors, 5 seats and a rather sizeable boot (460l) it's big enough for you and your friends whether you're planning a trip to the store or across the country - just don't take it off-roading!

It also comes with cruise-control, leather seats, climate control, electric windows and all your toys and gadgets that you could expect from a car in it's error.

3 - It's Fun! - yet easy to drive

Despite only possessing 110kW of power, it is a surprisingly nippy car. The 2.0l turbocharged diesel engine has a good kick when you really get your foot down, and over-taking is a breeze. The 5-speed automatic gearbox means the bimmer sits with ease in traffic and its sequential manual mode allows for great control over torque transfer to the wheels. The rear-driven wheels means you can go around a corner sideways, and the stiff chasis will straighten you out again.

4 - It's Economical!

In typical Turbo-Diesel fashion, it sips fuel like a bird sips water. With a 60l tank you can expect to get well over 1000km on an open road, and a pretty competitive 7l/100km in town means your wallet won't cry every time you put your foot on the accelerator.

So if you ask me, that is my answer. It's practical, It's fun, It's cheap, and its economical. What else could you possible need?