In recent years the mid-size "rep" cars have gone upmarket and become more stylish as the class has undergone a revival. It's fair to say many of the cars in this class can now be regarded as genuine drivers cars, particularly the Mazda 6, Accord Euro and Mondeo.
I've only had the chance to drive a Mondeo and a Camry. The Mondeo was a 2002 spec Mondeo Zetec in NZ. Handles extremely well, excellent ride and very refined. However let down by the engine and lack of tiptronic gearbox (thought the facelift cars, I believe, have this now).
The Camry was rather dull, with ordinary steering feel and I though poorly executed in the interior, with signs of cost cutting to the centre consol in particular. Performed adequately, but I wouldn't buy one.
The Mazda 6 is my favourite car in this class though. Very stylish, particularly the hatch, handles very well and has excellent performance.
Any thoughts on cars in this class?