I suppose that comes to the crux of it really, this quality v cost thing. It's like having the second best hand in a poker game - you feel good while it's in your hand, but boy, are you gutted when it comes to diclosure time.
I guess the best advice is to drive carefully for 5 years, build up your no claims (protected no claims is worth the extra) and as yoor premium levels with age, go for companies that specialise in insurance. Tesco sell food and ae good value with it. But, without sounding snobbish, does their own brand stuff measure up to McV or whatever?