From Towcar Awards 2008

List price: £19,370 (when tested)
Kerbweight: 1558kg
85% Match: 1324kg
Max towing weight: 1500kg
Towball limit: 75kg

THE LAGUNA WAS one of the surprises this year. Driven solo, a firm ride and modest rear-seat space count against it. Hitched to a caravan, however, it delivers excellent stability and control.

It’s quick, too. The 1.9-litre engine puts out 150bhp and 251lb/ft of torque, sending the Laguna from 30-60mph in just 13.9 seconds. The engine is smooth and refined throughout the rev range. Strong brakes stopped it as well as it went.

Minimal fuss

The electronic parking brake held the outfit every time on the hill-start test, and the engine pulled the car up the hill with minimal fuss. Every piece of luggage apart from the Aquaroll went in the boot, and there’s a handy 12V socket, too.

We say

Towing: 4/5
Solo: 3/5
Practicality: 4/5
Buying & owning: 4/5

Verdict: 4/5. Very stable. Superb engine. Rear seat space is tight.

Braking 30-0mph 11.0m