The Dixon Motors' website, while simple to use, is visually boring. However, it is packed with useful information. Users select from three large icons - new cars, used cars or hottest deals - or follow a link from a handy pop up menu called 'quick links'. Once inside the site, the colours and page layout improve considerably.

A scroll bar makes navigating the site hassle free. Users can obtain a Cap valuation for their vehicle - inputting make, model, year and condition - prior to visiting the dealership, giving them a better idea of the type of car they can afford.

On both the new and used car stock locators, users make a search by make, model, price range, fuel type and gearbox. The finance calculator makes searching for the right car - within budget - more rewarding.

The used car section also has an icon called 'nothing suitable'. Users click on to send an e-mail if they can't find the car they are looking for.

A 'hottest deals' section lists a number of makes and models. A picture is shown with the price and an example finance repayment figure. Some rival websites don't like to show prices, so this was a pleasing feature. An insurance section has a link to the Direct Line website.

In contrast to the rest of the site, the accessories section was quite poor. Users cannot browse an accessories list and make an order online. Instead, they can only e-mail a description of the accessory. A dealer locator function can at least put visitors in touch with a local dealership.

Internet car buyers will expect more from this site in terms of ordering parts or accessories online, but they will find basic functions like booking a service. Overall, this site is well put together and easy to use.