Mazda

Mazda 3 (2003-2008)

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If you're looking for a small family car that's good to drive and reliable, but you don't want to follow the crowd, the 3 could fit the bill perfectly. With great dynamics and strong build quality, the 3 is well worth a closer look - but running costs can be high. If you're tempted, choose a post-July 2006 car as these have better chassis settings and improved interiors. While the 3 is class-leading in few areas, as an all-rounder it's a great small family hatch; just ask any owner.

Key Dates

12/03: The Mazda 3 debuts.

7/06: The 3 is facelifted, with a revised nose and tail, improved interior trim and recalibrated suspension.

11/06: The 2.3-litre MPS (Mazda Performance Series) arrives.

1/07: A 2.0-litre turbodiesel appears.

5/08: All cars get extra standard equipment.

Mazda 3 (2003-2008) Checklist

  • Steering creaks and groans mean new front suspension bushes are needed.
  • A knocking from the front when the engine is cold, is the exhaust rattling.
  • On diesels, black or blue exhaust smoke points to a failed turbocharger.
  • The exhaust gas recirculation valve can fail on early 1.6Ds; look for uneven idling or hesitation when accelerating.
  • The end of the plastic dipstick of the 1.6D engine can break and drop into the sump; the only fix is to remove the sump to retrieve it.
  • Some 2004/2005 cars have suffered from corrosion around the rear wheelarches.
  • The alloy wheel lacquer can bubble and blister.

We Like

  • Great diesel engines
  • Handling
  • Reliability
  • Value
  • Practicality

We Don't Like

  • Lacklustre 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines
  • Unruly MPS is costly to tax

 

Tags: 3

Lexus

Lexus RX (2005-2009)

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An environmentally friendly SUV may seem like a contradiction in terms, but that's exactly what Lexus set out to create when it introduced the second-generation RX in hybrid form only - although a regular petrol-powered edition soon followed. As with any Lexus you can expect peerless build quality, superb dealer service and a somewhat detached driving experience. So while this isn't one for the enthusiast, if you're looking for a painless (but costly) ownership experience, it could be just the ticket.

Key Dates

5/05: The RX400h arrives, powered by a 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine combined with an electric motor to give 208bhp.

4/06: A conventional petrol-powered RX joins the range; the 3.5-litre RX350.

4/07: An SR high-spec edition of the RX400h is introduced.

10/07: A facelift brings more exterior brightwork, a revised wheel design and a new radiator grille.

Lexus RX (2005-2009) Checklist

  • If the air-con isn't switched off manually before the ignition is switched off, the battery can go flat in less than an hour.
  • Don't buy one for its congestion charge-exempt status; since early 2008 the RX has not been eligible.
  • Lexus launched a hybrid RX primarily for the extra performance available, rather than for ultimate economy. If you're hoping for genuine frugality, you're still probably better off going for a conventional diesel.
  • The integrated hands-free phone can prove problematic to set up; even Lexus dealers have been known to be thwarted.
  • The rear bumper tends to get scuffed when the car is unloaded and unloaded.

We Like

  • Build quality
  • Reliability
  • Equipment levels
  • Hybrid's economy

We Don't Like

  • Lack of diesels
  • Limited off-road ability
  • Firm low-speed ride
  • Inert dynamics

Tags: RX

Mercedes

Mercedes E-Class (2002-2009)

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Prestige comes no more highly regarded than with a Mercedes; perceived as a cut above rivals Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Lexus, the E-Class sums up everything that's great about the world's oldest car maker. Comfortable, well-equipped, safe and practical, the E-Class saloon makes a superb family car. Opt for one of the amazingly capacious estates and you get all this plus one of the biggest load bays available anywhere.

Key Dates

6/02: The third-generation E-Class saloon arrives.

8/02: The 476bhp 5.4-litre V8 E55 AMG debuts.

5/03: The E-Class estate goes on sale.

11/04: The E350 supersedes the E320.

6/05: The E280 replaces the E240 and the E280CDi supersedes the E220CDi.

7/06: A facelifted E-Class debuts, with fresh bumpers and lights along with extra equipment. The E63 AMG also arrives.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2002-2009) Checklist

  • Buy an auto, as selling on a manual car can prove tricky. Also go for a car with leather.
  • Some early cars were badly made; check very carefully before buying.
  • The E320CDi's fuel pump can leak diesel onto the cooling system pipes, requiring new pump and pipes.
  • The E320CDi's fuel injectors can fail within 60,000 miles; replacements are costly. The injectors can also seize into the cylinder head, requiring a costly new cylinder head.
  • The transmission oil cooler of automatics is sited in the radiator matrix; failure can lead to the transmission being destroyed.
  • Listen for tinkling as the revs rise on an E320CDi; this points to failure of the ceramic matrix in the catalytic converter.
  • The front springs can break, allowing the car to collapse.

We Like

  • Style
  • Space
  • Safety
  • Image

We Don't Like

  • High purchase prices
  • High running costs
  • Potential unreliability

Subaru

Subaru Legacy (2003-2009)

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If ever there was a brand struggling to achieve any kind of identity, it's Subaru. Renowned for its reliability but little else, this Japanese company has suffered from a lack of awareness ever since it arrived here in the Seventies. Despite (or perhaps because of) this, the Legacy is well worth a look as it's fast, well-equipped, well-built and fitted with four-wheel drive as standard. But running costs can be very high, so make sure you can really afford one before buying.

Key Dates

10/03: A heavily revised Legacy is introduced, although it shares some components with the previous model. There are 2.0 and 2.5-litre (4-cyl) editions plus a 3.0 flat-six.

9/04: The 241bhp 3.0R Spec B arrives.

8/05: The 2.0 now has 162bhp (previously 135bhp) and the ultra-sporty 3.0 R Spec B is now available as an auto.

10/06: A facelift brings revised nose and tail, plus suspension and standard equipment changes.

2/08: At last there's a diesel option - a 148bhp 2.0 unit.

5/08: LPG Legacys join the range; there's a 148bhp 2.0 or a 171bhp 2.5.

Subaru Legacy (2003-2009) Checklist

  • The Legacy is generally very reliable, but when parts are needed they can be pretty costly; so get a quote for any repairs before committing to buying.
  • Servicing is also very costly; ask your local dealer what they're going to charge you for maintenance before you commit to purchase.
  • To top it off, petrol-powered Legacys (which is most of them) are thirsty; if you cover a high mileage, the fuel bills could prove crippling.

We Like

  • Reliability
  • Equipment
  • 4WD security

We Don't Like

  • Few diesels
  • Cheap-looking interior
  • Firm ride

Aston Martin

Aston Martin Vanquish (2001-2008)

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If you're looking for an utterly usable supercar that's also beautiful to look at, the Vanquish could be just the thing. Costly to buy as well as to run, these cars will take regular use in their stride, and with 2578 Vanquishes built, they're not as rare as you might think - and not all examples have been cherished, so tread carefully.

Key Dates

1/98: Project Vantage is unveiled at the 1998 Detroit motor show.

3/01: Production cars arrive, with a 460bhp 5935cc V12.

6/04: The Sports Dynamic Pack becomes optionally available, with reconfigured suspension, stronger brakes and revised steering.

11/04: The Vanquish S supersedes the standard model, with more power (now 520bhp), mild styling revisions, redesigned wheels, and standard fitment of the Sports Dynamic Pack.

2/07: The Ultimate Edition debuts; 40 are made, with black paintwork, interior revisions and personalised sill plaques.

Aston Martin Vanquish (2001-2008) Checklist

  • Inspect the bodywork very carefully for scrapes; not all Vanquishes are cherished; its inherent usability means some are used regularly, frequently in urban environments.
  • Check around the door apertures, as the glass can rub against the A-pillar, through the protective rubber exposing the aluminium underneath.
  • Some of the brightwork can deteriorate and it's costly to replace, while any blistering of panels will also be expensive to repair - all of the bodywork is made of aluminium.
  • Poorly set up gearbox controls are common; aftermarket upgrades are available though.

We Like

  • Performance
  • Style
  • Image

We Don't Like

  • Dynamically outclassed
  • Disappointing cabin quality

Peugeot

Peugeot 607 (2000-2009)

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No French car maker has ever produced a large car which has been a sales success in the UK. Despite this, all three of the big French car makers insist on building unsaleable executives, which are generally capable enough, but never good enough to distract buyers from the German marques. That's how it was with the 607; a good car, which offers terrific value as a used buy.

Key Dates

6/00: The 607 debuts with 2.2 or 3.0 V6 petrol engines or a 2.2 HDi turbodiesel.

4/01: There are now 2.0-litre petrol and turbodiesel engines available.

12/02: SE models get colour sat-nav as standard.

12/04: A facelift brings a new front bumper and grille, more standard kit and an improved interior.

10/05: The high-spec Executive is introduced - but not with the 2.2HDi engine until July 2006.

Peugeot 607 (2000-2009) Checklist

  • Some early cars were built with incorrect suspension parts, leading to an over-firm ride; this should have been fixed under warranty though.
  • Some pre-2003 607s with electric adjustment for the driver's seat featured insufficient padding, leading to uncomfortable seats.
  • Electrics can be temperamental, especially the powered windows and windscreen washers.
  • The driver's door sticks because of dropping hinges; check it opens and closes smoothly.
  • Airbag warning lights can stay on because of faulty sensors - or a faulty airbag.
  • On HDIs, the rubber-cushioned timing belt pulley needs replacing at the same time as the timing belt - but this isn't always done.

We Like

  • Value
  • Comfort
  • Space
  • Standard equipment
  • Safety kit

We Don't Like

  • Driving position
  • Fussy interior design
  • Low-speed ride

BMW

BMW Z4 (2003-2008)

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Great to drive, fast and beautifully built, the Z4 was offered with a selection of strong engines and a choice of coupé or roadster bodystyles. While there are cheaper sportscars out there, none offers the range of talents available from the Z4 - although Porsche's Boxster is arguably a better all-rounder. However, the BMW is more affordable to buy and run and more practical too. BMW dealers are also among the best around, so while you pay for the privilege of running a Z4, few cars are as satisfying to own.

Key Dates

3/03: The Z4 supersedes the Z3.

4/05: A new entry-level model is unveiled, the 2.0-litre.

1/06: A high-power 3.0-litre engine arrives, the 265bhp 3.0si. Also, the Z4M debuts, with a 343bhp 3.2-litre engine.

3/06: A coupé edition of the Z4 appears, with a choice of 265bhp 3.0 or 343bhp 3.2-litre petrol engines.

8/06: A high-power 2.5-litre engine joins the range, the 218bhp 2.5si.

3/08: The Edition Exclusive and Edition Sport specials arrive, limited to 300 apiece and available only with the 2.0-litre petrol engine.

5/09: An all-new Z4 coupé-cabriolet arrives.

BMW Z4 (2003-2008) Checklist

  • Standard wheels get kerbed easily; aftermarket items are even more damage-prone.
  • If the engine runs erratically it could be because the ECU needs reprogramming or an ignition coil may need to be replaced.
  • If the automatic wipers fail, a new windscreen is needed.
  • Oil consumption can be high, so make sure the engine isn't running on empty.

We Like

  • Dynamics
  • Build quality
  • Ergonomics

We Don't Like

  • High purchase costs
  • Marmite styling

 

Tags: Z4

Peugeot

Peugeot 1007 (2005-2008)

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Was the 1007 a lame duck or a dead one? Whatever it was, the car proved to be an embarrassing exercise for Peugeot, which reckoned it was pushing the boundaries with this city car that nobody wanted to buy. Upright and with easy access thanks to power-assisted sliding doors, the 1007 answered a question that nobody had asked. High prices also put off potential buyers, but on the used market the 1007 is far more attractively priced. As a result, the 1007 is now worth a closer look - if you can find one.

Key Dates

4/05: The 1007 debuts with a choice of 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol engines plus a 70bhp 1.4HDi turbodiesel option. Dolce and Sport trim levels are offered.

7/07: An SE trim level joins the range along with a 110bhp 1.6HDi turbodiesel engine.

Peugeot 1007 (2005-2008) Checklist

  • On the 1.6HDi engine the end of the plastic dipstick can break and fall into the sump, which then has to be removed to retrieve the missing part.
  • The 1.4HDi can whirr and whine; it's the timing belt tensioner failing. It'll need to be replaced, preferably along with the water pump and belt while you're at it.
  • The air-con can play up so make sure it works okay.
  • Those electric doors don't always behave themselves; they can open and close at random.
  • The rest of the electrics can also be temperamental, so check that absolutely everything works. Then check it all again.

We Like

  • High spec
  • Safety levels
  • Practicality
  • Easy access

We Don't Like

  • High purchase prices
  • Firm ride
  • Few about
  • Uncertain reliability

 

Volkswagen

VW Lupo (1999-2005)

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Ask any Lupo owner what they think of their car and you'll be regaled with tales of how it's under-rated, able to cope with anything, and the best thing to come out of VW in years. And it's not just hype; the Lupo may have been a tad costly when new - used values can also be steep - but the car makes up for it by being quite brilliant. While the 1.0-litre engine struggles on long-distance journeys, the bigger units are great, the car is brilliant around town and it's much more practical than you might think. Proof indeed that sometimes the best things do indeed come in small packages.

Key Dates

2/99: The Lupo is launched with a choice of 1.0 or 1.4-liyre petrol engines plus a 1.7SDi normally aspirated diesel.

5/99: The 100bhp Lupo Sport debuts.

6/99: Isofix mountings are now standard for all Lupos.

1/00: Power steering is now standard across the range.

7/00: There's now a 1.4TDi turbodiesel offered.

12/00: The 125bhp 1.6-litre Lupo GTi arrives.

5/01: The GTi gets a six-speed manual gearbox

5/03: All engines are now Euro4 compliant.

4/04: All cars now have ABS.

Volkswagen Lupo (1999-2005) Checklist

  • The automatic transmission can increase the fuel consumption more than you'd expect.
  • The GTi is costly to insure, despite its diminutive proportions; get a quote first.
  • The electrics can play up, so make sure everything works.

We Like

  • Agility
  • Solidity
  • Cruising ability
  • Fab diesel
  • Great for two

We Don't Like

  • Cramped for four

Jeep

Jeep Wrangler (1997-2007)

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Looked at in purely objective terms, few people in their right minds would buy a Jeep Wrangler - not unless they're closely related to the Marquis de Sade anyway. However, if you're looking for a go-anywhere workhorse that will be used more off the road than on it, the Wrangler could be just the ticket. Just be very careful that the previous owner hasn't worn the thing out.

Key Dates

3/97: Wrangler TJ supersedes the previous YJ edition, with a choice of 2.5 (4-cylinder) or 4.0-litre (6-cylinder) engines.

7/00: Instruments and seats are redesigned.

2/01: 60th Anniversary special edition debuts.

6/02: The Grizzly limited edition arrives.

7/03: The Sport TR2 special edition appears.

2/04: The Extreme Sport limited edtion joins the range.

7/05: The Renegade special edition reaches showrooms.

12/05: Jamboree and Summer limited editions arrive.

Jeep Wrangler (1997-2007) Checklist

  • Damage from off-roading is the most common problem; watch for floorpans that have been bashed about, seriously uneven panel gaps and wrecked paint.
  • Also watch out for suspension that's been damaged or is worn out; pay close attention to the axle swivel joints.
  • Check for oil leaks from the engine and transmission; they're costly to sort.
  • If used for off roading, there's a good chance the clutch will have taken some serious abuse; check it's not slipping.
  • Make sure the brakes are okay; feel for juddering (warped discs) and check for fade, signifying they've worn out.

We Like

  • Go anywhere ability
  • Tough

We Don't Like

  • Unrefined
  • No diesels
  • Rubbish handling

Vauxhall

Vauxhall Signum (2003-2009)

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Vauxhall's replacement for the Omega was based on the Vectra, so it didn't win many fans as it was seen as an overpriced family hatch rather than a distinct model worth a premium. That's good news for used buyers; the Signum's lack of visibility has ensured that residuals are less than rock solid. However, with a high specification, practicality galore and a decent choice of engines, the Signum has a lot to offer.

Key Dates

3/03: Signum introduced in 2.0 Turbo, 2.2 Di or 3.2 V6 petrol and 2.0 DTi or 2.2 DTi turbodiesel forms. There's also a 3.0 V6 CDTi turbodiesel.

1/04: The 2.2 Di is replaced by a 1.9CDTi unit in 120bhp and 150bhp forms.

5/04: All cars get extra standard equipment.

10/04: A 1.8-litre petrol engine is now offered.

7/05: All Signums get a facelift, with a fresh nose. A turbocharged 2.8 V6 petrol also arrives.

1/06: The frugal high-spec 1.8 Exclusiv Nav is introduced.

Vauxhall Signum (2003-2008) Checklist

  • On the 2.2 turbodiesel, the engine's timing chain pulley can fail - but there's no warning of the impending disaster.
  • With the 1.9CDTi engine, power can be lost when the throttle butterflies seize up. It's an easy fix, but is involved.
  • Most Signums are gadget-laden, so check that everything works - especially xenon lights, sat-nav systems and the alarm.
  • Many Signums have over-sized alloy wheels, easily kerbed and which can destroy the ride. It's best to stick with wheels no bigger than 17 inches across.

We Like

  • Value
  • Space
  • Equipment
  • Reliability
  • Refinement
  • Engines
  • Practicality

We Don't Like

  • Dowdy image

 

Subaru

Subaru Forester (2002-2007)

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If you're after the security of a four-wheel drive but you don't want a full-blown SUV, this could be just the ticket. The Forester offers all-wheel drive traction and enough ground clearance for some light off-roading, but it isn't as obvious as a conventional 4x4. Even better, complete reliability is guaranteed - just make sure you can afford the fuel bills.

Key Dates

10/02: The second-generation Forester arrives, with a choice of normally aspirated or turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engines.

2/04: The special edition Forester XLn arrives, with sat-nav and leather trim.

9/04: The Forester XT debuts, with a turbocharged 2.5-litre petrol engine.

3/05: The special edition Forester S appears, with sportier interior trim than standard.

5/05: A Prodive Performance Pack is now available, which boosts power to 252bhp.

8/05: The Forester gets a facelift with more power and revised suspension plus a refreshed front end design.

Subaru Forester (2002-2007) Checklist

  • Gear linkages can play up, so check that you can get all the ratios. Clutches can also be weak, so make sure there's no slip.
  • The Forester is popular for towing, especially among caravanners; if there's a tow bar fitted, make sure the clutch and brakes haven't worn out.
  • The generous ground clearance and four-wheel drive means off-roading is sometimes undertaken by Forester owners. That's why you must check the car's underside for damage.
  • The leading edge of the aluminium bonnet gets chipped very easily, so keep an eye out for paint damage or smal dents.

We Like

  • Build quality
  • Reliability
  • Dynamics
  • 4WD traction
  • Well equipped
  • Secure

We Don't Like

  • No diesels
  • Thirsty petrol engines
  • Dated interior