M&S Finance offers a variety of financial and insurance products, but Motor Insurance is something that almost everyone needs - at least if you own a car. Unfortunately there are so many companies offering Motor Insurance today that, after a while, one policy may begin to look much like the next.

Thinking that most Motor Insurance policies are much the same is usually a bad idea. At worst it can be a very expensive mistake - this is when you find out that your Motor Insurance policy doesn't actually cover you for what you thought it did, or it takes your Motor Insurance company months and months to argue over whether to pay you or not. Fortunately M&S Finance Motor Insurance is not like that at all, and when you compare M&S Motor Insurance to the competition then it stacks up quite nicely.

For example, here are just some of the options which come as standard with Marks and Spencer 5 Star Premier cover Motor Insurance (correct at May 2009), which are quite often not included with comparable Motor Insurance plans from companies such as Direct Line, Sainsburys, or Tesco Direct:

• Personal UK and European Breakdown Cover automatically included
• Comprehensive cover for trips abroad in the European Union - up to 90 days per trip
• Courtesy car during approved repairs automatically included
• Cover for Motor Legal Protection automatically included

So, it is clear that, besides being good value, M&S Motor Insurance also provides much more extensive cover than some of the top competitors. Additionally, you don't even need to be behind the wheel to benefit from M&S Finance UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Finance. Not least of these is Marks and Spencer Standard Motor Insurance. With M&S Finance you can keep the cost of your Motor Insurance down by choosing Standard cover, over Premier Cover. UK Vehicle can then be added to your policy as optional extras, if you wanted to.

If you're thinking of adding both Breakdown Cover and Motor Legal Protection, then it would cost less to upgrade to Premier Motor Insurance cover from M&S Finance, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Motor Insurance policies on offer from Marks and Spencer, and these include: Courtesy car (subject to availability); Loss, theft, damage and destruction of vehicle; Loss or damage to personal property in vehicle; Personal accident cover up to £10,000; Windscreen cover (£75 excess); a 24 hour claims service, and many other options as standard on each policy. In short, with Motor Insurance from M&S Financial Services, you get more, and you pay less.

Not so long ago, only banks and traditional insurance companies offered financial or insurance products, yet today it may often seem as if even the local corner shop is offering financial products. That's not quite true, of course, but many more companies do offer financial products than used to be the case, and it can sometimes be difficult to decide who is offering the best deal.

And, while Marks and Spencer once offered mostly fashion products, with the only hint of a credit card being when you paid for your shopping at the checkout, today you'll find as good a deal on M&S credit cards as you will with the latest range of M&S fashion.

In fact, these days Marks and Spencers, through its M&S Finance website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Motor Insurance, M&S Property Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

Straight Leg Flat Front Plain Suit Trousers, at M+S
Smart and classic, these flat front trousers are outstanding value. A practical and hardwearing easycare style

Pure Linen Flat Cap, at Marks and Spenser
A traditional British classic, this is a versatile style that looks great worn smart or casual

Double Twisted Stick Drop Earrings, at Marks n Spencer
Hook fastening Twisted design For hygiene reasons, refunds will only be given in accordance with your legal rights

Mixed Bead Multi Strand Necklace & Earrings Set, at Marks and Spencer
2 part set Hook fastening drop earrings Multi strand necklace with clasp fastening and adjustable length Mixed beads

Rotating Spice Rack, at Marks and Spencers
Set of 12 Wooden rack Triangular design Dimensions: H26cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

2" Longer Pure Cotton Quick Iron Hairline Stripe Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
Stylish and innovative, this hairline stripe easycare shirt is quick and easy to iron for a smart crisp look

My First Opposites Puzzles, at Marks & Spencers
Suitable for ages 0-3 years 22 pieces, 10 puzzles in total Hand-eye coordination and problem solving This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Cooks Bible - The Definitive Cook's Guide, at Marks & Spencer
The beautifully presented and inspiration Cooks bible is the definitive cooking guide for everyone. From choosing kitchen utensil to stocking the storecupboard, this book shows you how you can be superbly organized and creative in the kitchen. It offers valuable advice about all culinary matters, including kitchen equipment, ingredients, kitchen safety and the basics of diet and healthy eating. The Cooks bible provides practical information about all aspects of preparing and cooking food. It is also useful for those who know the basics but want to extend their kitchen repertoire to cooking exciting and varied dishes. Its wide range of recipes has been carefully selected to combine traditional favourites with modern choices. So whether you wish to make a cheese souffl, create a paella, or bake fresh croissants you will find Cooks Bible an invaluable source of inspiration and advice that you will want to go back to again and again.

Canale Estate Reserve Merlot 2007 - Case of 6, at M&S
Style: Full bodied Grape variety: Merlot Country of origin: Argentina Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 14% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.5 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.8 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Easycare Long Sleeve Textured Shirt, at Mark & Spensers
Smart and stylish, this easycare shirt makes a practical choice for everyday wear

Autograph Long Sleeve Mock Shirt Jumper, at Marks n Spencer
Fashionable and contemporary, this v-neck mock shirt jumper is part of our exclusive Autograph collection. A great design, superior fabric and careful attention to detail makes it exceptionally stylish and comfortable

Trackers Trail Sauvignon Blanc 2008 - Case of 12, at Marks & Spencer
Style: Dry Grape variety: Sauvignon Blanc Country of origin: South Africa Closure: Synthetic closure Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.8 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.6 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Stainless Steel Juicer, at M+S
Grip handles Easy pour feature, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Pure Cotton Military Jacket, at Marks and Spencer
A smartly tailored military jacket in pure cotton rich fabric

Travel Shower Cap, at Marks & Spencer
Soap and shower design Ruffle trim

Per Una Linen Blend Spring Mist Skirt, at Marks and Spencers
An elegant full length linen blend skirt. The spring floral detail give it the Per Una touch

Cotton Rich Pin Spot Print Bikini Knickers, at Marks and Spencers
Pretty and feminine, these cute pin spot print bikini briefs sit low on the waist - perfect for wearing under hipsters. They're cut away at the front and sides and cover the bottom for a comfortable and flattering fit

Geneva 2-Seater Sofa (No Arms), at Mark's & Spencer
H88 x W152 x D96cm Seat H49cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushions filled with shape-retaining foam - superior quality foam with a high density for added comfort and support Other cushions filled with polyester fibre. Gives a soft sit with a lived-in look, which will soften and relax even further with use. Fibre is sewn into channels within the interior to prevent settlement in one area of the cushion Frame made from solid hardwood. All main joints are glued and screwed to give the frame strength Frames are rigorously tested with 95kg weight equivalent and exceed standards set for heavy domestic use Solid birch feet with a medium finish All of our fabrics are treated with Stain-Defence& trade; - a stain resistant finish - at no extra cost. Fabrics are tested for resistance to wear and fading Detailed care instructions are included Free eco-friendly home delivery. Our crews will unpack, assemble and position the item This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more Free swatch service: Order up to 6 free swatch samples of any fabric to help you choose your upholstery by calling 08457 624 624 Please note: Images displayed here act as a guide and may not be representative of the finished item. Fabrics are overlayed onto model images, so actual seams and pattern match may differ from what is shown. Leather furniture, in particular, has more seams than fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Maternity Open Front Jersey Cardigan, at Marks & Spencer
Smart and stylish, this jersey cardigan is designed to flatter you and your bump. A clever cut gives a neat, comfortable fit with room for growth. A fashionable, functional choice

3D Floral Lace Pillowcase, at Marks and Spencer
Fits standard pillows Pure cotton Embroidered lace feature, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Bold Stripe Bottle Gift Bag, at Marks & Spencer
Bold stripe design Includes tag H370 x W120 x D80mm

Classic Collection Waterfall Jersey Top, at Marks&Spencer
Ideal for everyday wear, this smart top is made from soft easycare fabric and the fit is comfortable and flattering. A fashionable and practical style

Collezione Pure Wool Single Pleated Trousers, at Marks and Spencer
Italian tailoring is renowned for its sophisticated style. Each collezione suit is designed with that same passion, using the finest fabrics and best tailoring techniques. Inspired by Italian flair, we've lavished time and care to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Playmobil Horse Washing Station Toy, at Marks & Spencer
Suitable for ages 4+ Ground space and accessories Functional horsewash station This product conforms to the EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

PlayStation® 2 Ben 10: Protector Of Earth, at Mark & Spencers
Take control of the Omnitrix and play as 5 different alien heroes from the show, including Four Arms, Heatblast, Cannonbolt, Wildvine and XLR8 Collect experience points to upgrade your characters and unlock over 80 combo moves Venture to 14 different levels and unlock 4 challenge locations Challenge your friends in battle mode or play together in 2-player co-op mode Unlock additional content including character skins, show clips and never-before-seen concept art 2007 Sony Computer Entertainment Europe This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more M&S is a member of the WEEE Distributor Take Back Scheme. Recycling your electronic waste has never been easier! Click here for more information, ESRB Rating: Kids to Adults

Older Girls' Heart Jelly Pumps, at Marks & Spencer
Round toe Slip on Cut out heart detail Jelly design Flat sole

Autograph Pure Cotton Bold Stripe Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
Feminine and elegant, this sophisticated shirt is beautifully designed and cut for a flattering shape and features a striking stripe print

Abbey S/STL, at Marks & Spencers
Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Cotton Textured Twill Baseball Cap, at Marks & Spencer
Whether you're keeping the sun out of your eyes during the big game or simply relaxing in casualwear, the baseball cap is a style essential

Perfect Lightweight Scarf, at Marks and Spencers
Scarves are a chic way to accessorise any outfit. This one in soft striped jersey is perfect for autumn

Besides Marks & Spenser Motor Insurance, M&S Finance Credit Cards and other financial products, M&S Finance Property Insurance deserves particular mention, with it being particularly good value for money, and providing extra insurance cover that many UK insurance companies either don't provide at all, or would charge extra for.

With M&S Finance Premier Contents policy, for example, student's belongings are not only covered at home, but also at college or university. Additionally, dependent relatives are also covered if their belongings happen to be in a nursing home. Even better still, your Marks & Spencers purchases are also protected while you take them home.

Also, on both M&S Finance Premier Property Insurance and Standard Property Insurance policies, you can choose to include Contents Away From Home. This option would then provide valuable cover all of your personal belongings on a worldwide basis.