Having said all that, I am a firm believer of living within your means, not spending money you don't have and trying to be something you're not and just trying to keep up with the Jones'. I got finance on a motorcycle when I was young and stupid - never again!
However, when it comes to cars which are a necessity, there are few families who have a few grand just knocking about that they can afford to blow on a car. Therefore a loan is the best option as it's by far the cheapest (unless you're very clever with a credit card). The loan we have for the mrs car is the first loan I've had for many many years, but unfortunately needs must. I would only ever borrow money if I could easily afford it and I would never stretch myself cos you just never know what's around the corner!