Big cars with four-cylinder engines are coming through as a good choice with petrol prices the way they are.

These cars prove that you lose little, if anything, in terms of performance.

Here's our five best big fours.-

Ford Falcon EcoBoost: Jumping on the EcoBoost bandwagon, along with Jaguar, Volvo and Range Rover, gives the spacious Aussie Ford single-figure economy, while offering seriously crisp acceleration and high levels of refinement. From $48,490.

Hyundai i45: Still known as the Sonata stateside, the Hyundai dropped its sixes at the last model change and does well with 2.0 and 2.4-litre choices and four different models, with some loaded with gear, and all well styled. From $42,990.

Kia Optima: The sister ship to the i45, the Optima is a stunning looker and has a similarly expansive cabin to the Hyundai's. Just two specs with the same brisk easy-going 2.4-litre engine. Promised diesels haven't turned up yet. From $46,990.

Toyota Camry: With five 2.5-litre models, two of which are hybrids, Toyota has all bases covered. The Camry has gained new athleticism and refinement and a bigger cabin. The hybrids go for over $50,000, but the straight Camry is good. From $44,990.

OUR PICK

Skoda Superb: It has the biggest, longest and best-finished cabin here, with three sedans and five wagons to pick from. Smallest 1.8 turbo four is brilliant, but 2.0-litre diesels impress too. Cloth and leather choices, but high spec in every model. From $46,000.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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