Top 10 most-secure cars of 2004

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Top 10 most-secure cars of 2004
by Tom Evans and Kyle Fortune, last updated July 15 2004

Volvo wins overall


The Citroen C3 has been chosen as the most-secure small car, according to the 2004 British Insurance Car xxxxxx Awards. The awards, which are given as a result of a survey organised by the Association of British Insurers, have been given in each car category. The best car is the one deemed most effective in each class in resisting intruders and preventing theft. Volvo wins overall


Tests were carried out on more than 5,000 vehicles over the past six years. The tests were carried out by the UK Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre - better known as 'Thatcham'. The listing below shows the best models by size category, with the overall manufacturer award going to Volvo.
Unfortunately, the xxxxxx characteristics of each car are already reflected in insurance premiums so there will be no discounts going. The awards were announced at the end of June.


Here is our full guide to the winners of the 2004 British Insurance Car xxxxxx Awards:

Citroen C3 Exclusive (city/supermini category)
The C3 is a quirky, spacious, capable and enjoyable supermini. The awards highlighted the Exclusive models, unsurprisingly the most expensive in the C3 line-up, but that�s not unusual in this class. With Citroen�s generous offers though, you might be able to secure a bargain. Citroen C3


Audi A3 (small family) It�s not surprising that the A3 is top here, being a premium brand xxxxxx is unsurprisingly a priority. It also means that the A3 isn�t the cheapest car in the class, but you can see where the extra money goes. Classy, stylish and a good drive, we�re big fans of Audi�s hatchback. Audi A3


Toyota Avensis Saloon (family)
The Avensis is a cracking contender in the family saloon market. Distinctive looks, fantastic, near Lexus levels of quality, and an enjoyable drive all add up to an enticing package. With this xxxxxx recommendation too you can be sure it�ll stay yours. Certainly worth a look. Toyota Avensis saloon


Lexus IS200(compact executive)
In a market dominated by the BMW 3 Series it�s great to see the Lexus score here. A fantastic looking saloon with a charismatic engine and brilliant gearbox, it�s often overlooked in this class, despite its numerous talents. It seems newer rivals should take note of the IS200�s impressive xxxxxx too. Lexus IS200


Ford Focus C-Max Ghia - except 2.0i (compact MPV)
Ford was late into the compact MPV market, but its contender really is a class leader, and not just in xxxxxx. Sure, it doesn�t offer the seven seats of some, but the versatile interior, smart looks and entertaining drive make it a top family choice. You pay for xxxxxx though, Ghia models are in the upper price range. Ford Focus C-Max


Renault Espace - except Authentique (large MPV)
The car that defines the class also seems to be the most secure, but you do need to opt above entry-level Authentique trim for award-winning xxxxxx. In either normal or enormous Grand guise the Espace has its competition licked for style and comfort. And Renault�s safety record is reassuring too. But it all comes at a cost, the Espace isn�t cheap. Renault Espace


Saab 9-3 Convertible (convertible/roadster)
The 9-3 is a hugely important model for the Saab so it�s good to see it at the top of the xxxxxx class. Convertibles are always a xxxxxx concern, so if you�re likely to be parking your stylish drop-top on the street at night the 9-3�s performance here should be reassuring. That it�s one of the best looking cabriolets around is a bonus too. Saab 9-3 Cabriolet


Nissan 350Z Coupe (performance car)
The 350Z burst into the growing coupe market last year. Real presence, thumping performance, a rousing exhaust note and demanding drive make it a very desirable machine. That�s likely to attract attention of the wrong sort, so its performance in the xxxxxx awards means is encouraging. An inexpensive, and distinctive performance car. Nissan 350-Z


VW Touareg (4x4)
Volkswagen�s first attempt at a luxury off-roader is hugely impressive. 4x4s are very desirable, and the Touareg is particularly elegant, so it�s a good thing that the big VW tops its class in the xxxxxx awards. A discrete, classy and enormously capable car, it�ll take you anywhere. Being so secure you can be sure it�ll be there when you get back. VW Touareg


Audi A8 3.7 & 4.2 V8 quattro (executive/luxury)
Audi describes its A8 as the choice of the �rock aristocracy�. That�s hardly surprising as its unassuming, smart looks give anybody an air of class, however old and dishevelled. An attractive buy, both in ability and looks; we�re certain Audi will sell you one even if you don�t have a million-selling album among your achievements.
Audi A8


Volvo Car UK Ltd (overall manufacturer)
Volvo might not have been able to claim a top spot for an individual model, but overall its cars all impressed on the xxxxxx front with a number of second placings. That means you can buy any new Volvo with confidence, and with excellent newcomers like the S40 and V50 available the range is very impressive indeed.