SEAT

SEAT Leon (2005-2013)

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When the SEAT Leon Mk2 arrived it instantly made all of its rivals look rather staid. With its swoopy lines the Leon cut a dash like no other small family hatch, and while time has reduced the visual impact of SEAT’s mid-range car, the Leon still looks distinctive. Based on the contemporary VW Golf, the Leon doesn’t offer the same array of bodystyles and the interior isn’t as plush, but you can pick one up for significantly less cash. Plus, with a huge choice of engines to choose from, there’s a Leon for you whether you want economy or tyre-scorching performance.

Key dates

8/05: The Leon Mk2 arrives, with 1.6, 2.0 FSI, 1.9 TDI or 2.0 TDI engines.

10/05: A 182bhp 2.0 TFSI Sport edition appears.

6/06: 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI Leon FRs are now available, with 168bhp and 198bhp respectively.

11/06: The 237bhp 2.0 TFSi Cupra arrives.

3/08: A 123bhp 1.4 TSI engine joins the range.

7/08: The ultra-frugal 1.9 TDI Ecomotive goes on sale. Rated at 119g/km initially, in summer 2010 this is cut to 99g/km.

7/09: A facelift brings styling tweaks, a new trim hierarchy and a bigger rear window for improved visibility.

11/10: A 2.0 TDI common rail diesel engine appears, in 138bhp form.

Checklist

  • The rear light clusters can suffer from condensation, through failed seals.
  • Sporty Leons have firmer suspension than standard. From 2009 all Leons got an improved suspension set-up.
  • Paintwork can damage easily, with Luna Grey seemingly more prone to damage than any other colour.
  • The rear washer tube can come adrift, leading to water behind the offside boot trim panel; it’s easily fixed though.
  • The gas struts for the tailgate fail. You can buy aftermarket items from www.sgs-engineering.com  
  • The Electronic Stability Programme hardware can play up. Part of the anti-lock braking system, the fault is usually rectified by replacing the ABS pump, which is very costly.
  • The wipers can fail if the bonnet isn’t closed properly or a wire has come adrift from the bonnet lock. Closing the bonnet and attaching the wire should fix things.

We like

  • Distinctive looks
  • Engine choice
  • Value
  • Low running costs
  • Good to drive

We don’t like

  • Cramped rear seats
  • Cheap-looking cabin

 

Richard Dredge

Lexus

Lexus IS (2005-2013)

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Designed to take on compact executives from Audi, BMW and Mercedes, the IS is well-equipped, comfortable and reliable, but refinement and economy can be disappointing, while there are few engines to choose between. In Japan the IS was sold as a Toyota, and in some ways it’s more deserving of that badge than the Lexus one, as this doesn’t feel like the premium car that it’s supposed to be. The dynamics aren’t as polished as some rivals’, but as an ownership experience any Lexus is hard to beat, as the dealer network offers unrivalled levels of service. So while driving an IS probably won’t raise your pulse, neither should owning one.

Key dates

11/05: The IS Mk2 arrives in 2.5-litre petrol (IS250) saloon form.

1/06: The first ever diesel-engined Lexus appears; the IS220d.

4/08: The 417bhp 5.0-litre V8 IS-F debuts.

11/08: A facelift (but not for the IS-F) brings a revised nose, an overhauled dash and a new trim structure (now SE, SE-I, SE-L).

7/09: The IS250C coupé-cabriolet hits showrooms, in 2.5-litre petrol form only.

12/09: There’s a new HDD navigation system and an F-Sport trim.

8/10: The IS200d replaces the IS220d.

Checklist

  • The diesel engine can take an age to warm up; bad news if your journeys are usually short.
  • IS220ds built before the November 2008 facelift can suffer from turbo lag and a lack of power below 2000rpm.
  • Water pumps fail after 60,000 miles or so on the IS250. Listen for rumbling from the engine bay.
  • Alloy wheels are prone to bubbling and blistering of the lacquer, as well as corrosion, especially if not cleaned regularly.
  • The interior trim isn’t always as well screwed together as you’d hope; listen for rattles from the door trim panels and dashboard.
  • The rear brake callipers can seize up and it’s not always possible to free them off. Fitting replacements is a costly job.
  • The power steering can be unreliable, so make sure there’s a consistent feel as you turn the wheel; check for leaks too

We like

  • Reliability
  • Value
  • Equipment levels
  • Excellent dealers
  • Lots of safety kit

We don’t like

  • Inert dynamics
  • No estates
  • Noisy diesel
  • Manual gearchange
  • Small boot
  • Cramped rear seats

 

Richard Dredge

Toyota

Toyota Auris (2007-2013)

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The Toyota Auris has often had a rough ride in the press, thanks to its white goods nature. Designed to appeal to those who see their cars as mere transport, rather than something to enjoy driving, the Auris is one of those cars that gets on quietly doing its job, failing to inspire, but actually doing a pretty good job. So while this Focus rival is reliable, cheap to run and decently practical too, its bland styling and so-so driving experience guarantee you’ll never hear an Auris owner getting excited by their car. But if you’re after cheap, anonymous and dependable transport, then look no further.

Key dates

2/07: The Auris supersedes the Corolla with 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol (VVT-i) engines plus 1.4 or 2.0-litre (D-4D) diesels. There are three- or five-door hatches with T2, T3 or T-Spirit trims.

3/07: A 175bhp 2.2 D-4D debuts.

4/08: SR and TR trims join the range

7/08: A 1.4 D-4D engine is introduced and the 1.4 VVT-i engine is replaced by a 1.33-litre unit with stop/start.

7/10: The hybrid Auris (1.8 HSD) appears.

5/11: A range refresh brings extra kit for most models, plus the Edition replaces T2 trim.

Checklist

  • The regular Auris has a reasonably sized 354-litre boot, but the hybrid edition cuts this to just 279 litres.
  • Automatic gearboxes aren’t very reliable; they can be reluctant to change gear, or changes can be jerky.
  • On manual cars, clutches can fail prematurely, so feel for slipping which suggests a new clutch is due.
  • Squealing brakes aren’t unusual. Many cars got new parts under warranty.
  • There have been instances of gearboxes being replaced under warranty, because they chatter so noisily.
  • The handbrake can fail to hold the car on an incline. Adjustment usually sorts things, but as a precaution, leave the car in gear.
  • Water in the spare wheel well is usually because the air vents behind the rear wheels have leaked – or it could be the rear light units letting in water.

We like

  • Practicality
  • Reliability
  • Comfort
  • Build quality
  • Spacious cabin

We don’t like

  • Stodgy dynamics
  • Bland design

 

Richard Dredge

Renault

Renault Wind (2010-2012)

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Look past the silly name and the Renault Wind has much to offer. Cheap to buy and run, quirkily styled and with a great chassis – set up the boys from Renaultsport – the Wind deserved a better fate. As it was, this Twingo-based roadster lasted just 18 months with a mere handful sold in the UK; now it represents a truly affordable and distinctive route into open-topped motoring.

Key dates

7/10: The Wind arrives in the UK, in Dynamique and Dynamique S forms with 1.2 Tce 100 or 1.6 VVT 133 engines. Launch cars are also offered in Collection guise.

1/11: The model line-up is tweaked to consist of Dynamique and GT Line.

7/11: There’s now a Gordini option, in Dynamique or GT Line guises. There are no mechanical changes over the regular models though.

2/12: The Wind is canned in the UK.

Checklist

  • The seals between the roof and the side windows can fail, especially if the car has been pressure washed a lot.
  • The turbocharged 1.2 TCe engine is the more zesty powerplant of the two, but the 1.6 sounds better and offers more muscle.
  • Practicality might be an issue; the boot is small and there’s seating for just two.
  • Visibility is poor and not all cars have parking sensors, so check for scrapes.
  • Wind noise is poor, especially at speed with the roof down.
  • The paint can peel from the plastic trim around the rear window.

We like

  • Driving experience
  • Value
  • Quirkiness
  • Rarity
  • Neat electric roof

We don’t like

  • Cheap interior
  • Poor visibility
  • High-speed refinement

Richard Dredge

Honda

Honda Civic (2005-2012)

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If you want a small hatch that stands out from the crowd, the Civic is for you. Even now, this eighth-generation Civic's futuristic lines still look the part, and the dash is every bit as cutting-edge. Throw in generous equipment levels, a strong structure, lots of safety kit and a spacious, flexible interior and you've got a great family car. Some early examples aren't as well built as you might expect however, so you can't always take that legendary Honda reliability for granted.

Key Dates

9/05 :The eighth-generation Civic debuts, with 1.4 or 1.8 petrol engines or a 2.2 diesel.

1/06 :The Civic IMA hybrid saloon appears, without the radical styling of the hatch.

1/07 :A three-door car arrives, along with the Type S, the latter with 1.8 petrol or 2.2-litre diesel powerplants.

3/07 :The three-door 198bhp Type R goes on sale, along with the high-spec GT.

3/09 :A facelift brings a new 1.4 petrol engine.

9/09 :The high-spec Si joins the range.

3/11 :The BTCC-inspired Civic Ti arrives, with 1.4 or 1.8 petrol engines.

Honda Civic (2005-2012) Checklist

  • Door handles can fail, so check each door from inside and out.
  • Headlight seals fail, leading to condensation inside.
  • If the grille badge isn't intact, you have to replace the whole grille assembly.
  • Rear visibility is poor, so check for damage to the rear wings and bumper.
  • There's no spare wheel, so check the car isn't being driven on damaged tyres filled with sealant.
  • Diesels have no low level warning light and oil consumption can be up to 600 miles per litre.
  • The front foglamps, in the front bumper, get damaged from stones.
  • The rear window seals fail, letting water into the cabin.

We Like

  • Distinctive styling
  • Cabin flexibility
  • Safe construction
  • Equipment levels
  • Strong 2.2 diesel engine
  • Big boot

We Don't Like

  • So-so handling
  • Busy dash
  • Early cars' fragility
  • No small diesel

Mercedes

Mercedes B-Class (2005-2012)

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The B-Class is a spacious family hatch with that famed Mercedes build quality, a healthy dose of practicality and a strong image, yet many buyers were unaware of this overgrown A-Class. Of those who knew about it, many couldn't afford it. Easier to recommend used than new, the B-Class has the silhouette of an MPV, but doesn't offer that level of versatility. So while it's not an alternative to established MPVs, think of it as a posh family hatch at keen prices, and you won't go far wrong.

Key Dates

9/05 :The B-Class arrives in B150 (1.5-litre), B170 (1.7-litre) and B200 Turbo (2-litre) petrol forms. There's a 2-litre diesel in B180 CDi or B200 CDi guises too, plus SE or Sport trims. The B150 and B180 CDi also come in an un-named entry-level trim.

4/08 :A facelift brings more efficient engines and a tweaked nose along with a few minor interior revisions.

6/09 :The B160 and B180 petrol engines are introduced, with fuel-saving BlueEfficiency technology.

Mercedes B-Class (2005-2012) Checklist

  • Sunroofs can leak in heavy rain; look for damp patches in the cloth surrounding the aperture.
  • That extra height means the suspension is firm to counter body roll; make sure it's not uncomfortably firm.
  • High-mileage diesels can get very smoky and clattery, and big bills almost certainly loom.
  • Rear brake discs rust, especially on cars used sparingly. It's down to the front brakes doing most of the work.
  • The rear screen washer pipe detaches, allowing water to short the electrics that control the tailgate release.
  • Central locking problems can occur in cold weather, while the electric windows can play up; synchronising them usually fixes things.
  • Many owners find the heating and air-con system inadequate.

We Like

  • Image
  • Practicality
  • Reliability
  • Build quality
  • Spacious cabin
  • Diesel engines

We Don't Like

  • Fidgety ride
  • Vague steering
  • Lack of versatility
  • Awkward styling
  • Five seats only

Citroen

Citroen C6 (2006-2012)

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Citroen didn't expect to sell many C6s in the UK, which is just as well because in the half-dozen years it was available, fewer than 1,000 examples found homes. The C6 offered executive car buyers an alternative to the mainstream, but potential owners were put off by the spectre of reliability issues and horrific depreciation. The C6 has proved to be reasonably reliable, and while you won't enjoy the cast-iron build quality of German rivals, if you're looking for an unusual executive saloon, you don't get less predictable than here.

Key Dates

5/06: The C6 debuts with 3.0 V6 petrol or 2.7 V6 diesel engines. Trim levels are C6, Lignage or Exclusive.

10/06: There's now a 2.2HDi option.

8/09: The new range-topper is a 3.0HDi engine.

8/10: A wi-fi option is now available.

Citroen C6 (2006-2012) Checklist

  • Front suspension ball joints fail on early cars, when water gets in. A new design was fitted from 2009.
  • Listen for chattering on cornering, signifying worn wheelbearings; they can be weak.
  • ABS warnings aren't necessarily because of brake problems; the sensors can be faulty.
  • The fuse box in the engine bay can play up, although replacements are rarely needed.
  • On high-mileage cars suspension spheres can fail, affecting the ride quality.
  • A 'depollution error' message doesn't mean the DPF is at fault; the message can cover an array of other potential issues.
  • The 3.0HDi is noticeably smoother, torquier and more frugal than the already excellent 2.7HDi, but these later cars are very rare.

We Like

  • Exclusivity
  • Ride
  • Equipment levels
  • Value
  • Safety kit
  • Spacious cabin

We Don't Like

  • Vague steering
  • Jerky auto transmission
  • Poor body control
  • Small boot

Tags: C6

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Vauxhall

Vauxhall Zafira (2005-2012)

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Although Vauxhall didn't introduce the compact MPV, it did revolutionise the breed with its pop-up third row of seats. While rivals have now caught up, the second take on this compact MPV still offers brilliant family transport thanks to low purchase and running costs, and in most cases decent reliability too, especially in petrol-engined form. Throw in surprisingly good dynamics plus lots of choice, and you've got ideal family transport.

Key Dates

4/05: The second-generation Zafira is launched with a choice of 1.6, 1.8, turbocharged 2.0 or 2.2-litre petrol engines, plus a 1.9 turbodiesel.

9/05: The 237bhp Zafira VXR arrives, with a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine.

1/06: The 1.8-litre engine is now offered with Vauxhall's Easytronic semi-automatic transmission.

6/07: A high-spec Elite trim level becomes available with some engines.

12/07: The 1.6-litre engine is boosted from 103bhp to 113bhp.

3/08: A refresh brings cosmetic changes inside and out.

3/09: The 1.7CDTi Ecoflex arrives.

Vauxhall Zafira (2005-2012) Checklist

  • Diesel autos have a heat exchanger in the radiator; coolant can get into the gearbox, wrecking it.
  • Six-speed autos can be jerky, because of an incorrect internal pipe not allowing the box to be properly filled.
  • Some electrical items aren't that robust, so make sure that the interior lights all work, plus the wipers.
  • The spare wheel sits underneath the boot floor, so it's easily stolen.
  • Radios can switch themselves on when the car is left standing, draining the battery.
  • Turbos can fail, and so can alternators, oil pumps and flywheels on the 1.9CDTi engine.
  • Make sure the central locking works properly; the tailgate release can be particularly temperamental.

We Like

  • Value
  • Reliability
  • Versatility
  • Comfort
  • Practicality
  • Choice

We Don't Like

  • Dowdy image
  • Base models spartan

Kia

Kia Picanto (2004-2011)

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If ever there was a car that turned round a company's fortunes it was the Picanto, which proved Kia was capable of producing genuinely great cars. With its relatively generous equipment levels, spacious cabin and generally excellent build quality, the Picanto is surprisingly good to drive too, while running costs are commendably low. Most Picanto owners have also enjoyed excellent reliability too; it's no wonder the Picanto is so sought after.

Key Dates

5/04: The Picanto arrives in five-door hatch form only and with a choice of 1.0 or 1.1-litre engines, the latter with an automatic or manual transmission.

1/08: A facelifted Picanto debuts, with a new nose, revised tail plus column stalks that were switched so the indicators were now on the left.

The designations were also revised, with 2, Ice and 3 sitting above the entry-level model known simply as Picanto.

Kia Picanto (2004-2011) Checklist

  • Handbrakes can fail once the car has been left; the rear discs cool and contract.
  • The Picanto is popular with driving schools, so look at who has owned the car before.
  • Crankshaft retaining bolts can wear or break, wrecking the engine.
  • There's a canister of foam instead of a spare wheel, but the well in the boot floor can accommodate a full-sized wheel.
  • If the idle speed is all over the place when the car is started, it's usually a sticking idle speed control or faulty throttle positioning sensor.
  • Anti-roll bar bushes dry out, leading to creaking from the steering.
  • No chassis number in the bottom of the windscreen? The screen has been replaced.
  • Oil on the underside of the engine suggests the crankshaft oil seal has failed.

We Like

  • Spacious cabin
  • Value
  • Reliability
  • Looks
  • Agility

We Don't Like

  • Sluggish
  • Tiny boot

Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo 159 (2006-2012)

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Just because you want an executive car you don't have to buy something sober and Germanic - instead you could opt for something Italian, with much more flair. Don't be put off by Alfa's reputation for shoddy build quality; the 159 is from a newer breed of cars which are better built than ever before. But reliability can still be variable, so while you must check very carefully before buying, get the right car and you'll love driving something that bit different.

Key Dates

1/06: The 159 saloon replaces the 156, in 1.9, 2.2 or 3.2 V6 JTS (petrol) forms; there are also 1.9 or 2.4-litre JTDm (turbodiesel) options.

5/07: The entry-level 1.8MPi petrl-engined 159 debuts, along with the Sportwagon five-door estate, with the same engine options as the saloon.

10/07: The Q-Tronic automatic transmission appears, with the 3.2 V6, 1.9JTDm and 2.4JTDm. Also, the latter engine gets a power boost to 210bhp (previously 200bhp).

8/09: Two new engines appear; the 200bhp 1750i turbo petrol and the 170bhp 2.0JTDm.

4/11: A facelift brings a revised interior, extra equipment and a 136bhp 2.0JTDm engine option.

Alfa Romeo 159 (2006-2012) Checklist

  • Big wheels easily suffer from kerbing or pothole damage.
  • On the 1.9JTD engine, the waterpump fails, throwing the timing belt off, wrecking the powerplant.
  • A rattling 1.9JTD engine signals that the dual-mass flywheel needs replacing; they typically last 80,000 miles.
  • Clutch pedals can get sticky and squeaky; a shot of silicone grease is the cure.
  • Uneven and rapid tyre wear is a trait of 159s fitted with 19-inch wheels.
  • Steering racks can wear out in just 60,000 miles, yet still feel OK. Put the car through an MoT.
  • Some 159s suffer from a notchy gearchange, for which there's no cure. The transmission itself is strong though.

We Like

  • Exterior styling
  • Dynamics
  • Engines
  • Value
  • Cabin design

We Don't Like

  • Below-par reliability
  • So-so dealers
  • Cabin build quality

Tags: 159

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BMW

BMW 3 Series E90 (2005-2012)

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If a car maker was to create the perfect model range from scratch, the chances are they’d come up with something like the BMW 3-Series. Beautifully built and brilliant to drive, the 3-Series comes in almost any bodystyle, there’s a huge range of engines and you can have pretty much any piece of equipment you like. Those who have never driven one can be keen to dismiss the 3-Series’ many talents; try one and you’ll soon see what all the fuss is about.

Key dates

1/05: The fifth-generation 3-Series (E90 in BMW code) arrives, in saloon form only.

9/05: An estate (or Touring) is introduced, alongside new entry-level 318i and 318d models.

9/06: A 3-Series Coupé debuts, along with a 335i, 325d and 335d.

3/07: A superbly engineered coupé-cabrio joins the range.

9/07: Most models get more power, lower emissions or a completely new engine.

9/08: A facelifted 3-Series brings Efficient Dynamics fuel-saving technologies as standard, slightly revised design details and an improved iDrive interface.

7/09: The 316d saloon arrives, with CO2 emissions of 118g/km.

9/09: The 320d Efficient Dynamics saloon cuts CO2 emissions to just 109g/km.

Checklist

  • The 320d can suffer from a failed turbocharger; look for a smoky exhaust under acceleration.
  • If a towbar is fitted, check the electrics work as BMW’s multiplex wiring can be damaged easily.
  • Run-flat tyres are standard; they’re costly to replace, produce a firm ride and can wear unevenly.
  • Timing chains can fail – very expensively – on the 320d.
  • The tyre pressure monitoring system can be temperamental.
  • The steering rack can leak fluid into the track rod end gaiter; check the level in the fluid reservoir.
  • The rear door handles can stick in the open position, preventing the doors from being closed and latched properly.
  • Flat spots just above idle aren’t rare. A software update usually puts things right.

We like

  • Driving experience
  • Wide range
  • Lots to choose from
  • Build quality

We don’t like

  • High running costs
  • Firm ride

 

Richard Dredge

Ford

Ford C-Max (2003-2010)

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Sold as the MPV for those who didn't want one, Ford's C-Max has always been a car that put the fun back into transporting the family. With its great engines, neat looks and excellent dynamics, the C-Max offers fun in a segment where it's often sadly lacking. However, for a segment that should major on practicality, the C-Max isn't as versatile as it could be, but that doesn't stop it from being a desirable family hold-all.

Key Dates

10/03: The Focus C-Max debuts with 1.6 or 1.8-litre petrol engines, plus 1.6 or 2.0 TDCi (turbodiesel) units.

7/04: A high-power 115bhp 1.6-litre petrol is introduced.

1/05: A 90bhp entry-level 1.6 TDCi appears

10/05: The 1.6 TDCi gets a diesel particulate filter

7/06: A 113bhp 1.8 TDCi turbodiesel engine joins the range

8/06: The 1.8 petrol engine gets a flexi-fuel option, badged FFV, allowing the car to run on petrol or bio-ethanol.

3/07: A facelifted brings a new nose plus LED rear lights and extra equipment. Any Focus references are dropped, the car now known simply as the C-Max.

Ford C-Max (2003-2010) Checklist

  • The front suspension can creak and groan.
  • Xenon lights can go awry; repairs are expensive.
  • Some people find the seats uncomfortable on long journeys.
  • Standard bulbs are a pain to replace - it's best done by a dealer.
  • Check that the clutch isn't slipping; premature wear can be an issue.
  • Air-con systems can be temperamental.
  • The interior trim isn't always especially durable, with many C-Maxes suffering at the hands of small children.

We Like

  • Great engines
  • Excellent dynamics
  • Strong value
  • Low running costs
  • Practicality

We Don't Like

  • Versatility could be greater
  • Variable build quality