Bosch SMV8YCX02E built-in dishwasher, 60 cm, 14 place settings, class A

A is the top class on the EU energy label scale from A to G, and the SMV8YCX02E is rated in it. The Eco programme uses 54 kWh of electricity per 100 cycles. A dishwasher stays in the home for years and often runs every day, so low consumption adds up over time. And because 14 place settings fit in at once, you need to run it less often, which lowers consumption further.

With eight programmes you get more choice than on a basic machine: the wash can be matched to the size of the load and how dirty it is. AquaSensor is a sensor that monitors how cloudy the water is and helps the programme adjust wash time and water quantity to the soiling, so lightly soiled dishes do not waste water or time. The selected programme is clearly shown on the display.

Fourteen place settings is a large capacity for a 60 cm machine: one load handles a big family's daily dishes or the whole table after guests, pots and pans included. The third basket is meant for cutlery and small items. With the cutlery laid out separately, the lower basket has more room for plates, and spoons and forks come out cleaner.

The noise level is 44 dB, noise class B on the A–D scale, so the machine does not get in the way of conversation even in a kitchen that opens onto the living room. Wi-Fi lets you connect the dishwasher to your home network. According to the manufacturer's data this model has no child lock and no separate quick wash function, which is worth knowing if there are small children at home or you often need dishes in a hurry.

AquaStop cuts off the water supply if a leak occurs in the machine or the inlet hose, which matters for a built-in machine because a leak under the kitchen units can go unnoticed for a long time. The machine is 60 cm wide, 55 cm deep and 82 cm high, and weighs 43.2 kg. Rated power is 2400 W and the current is 10 A. Exact niche dimensions are in the Bosch installation instructions.

The SMV8YCX02E suits a household that uses its dishwasher a lot and wants it to use as little electricity as possible: energy class A and 54 kWh per 100 cycles are the main strengths of this model. Fourteen place settings, eight programmes, a third basket and quiet 44 dB operation suit larger families and homes with an open-plan kitchen.