Volkswagen

Volkswagen Passat (2005-2010)

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When it comes to rock-solid reputations, few are as unshakeable as Volkswagen’s – emissions scandal notwithstanding. Whatever the segment, the company has a contender which is bought for its dependability, comfort and refinement. That’s exactly how it is with the German outfit’s fleet favourite, the Passat, offered in saloon and estate forms in a multitude of guises. But reliability isn’t always as good as that Volkswagen badge might have you believe and you won’t stand out from the crowd if you drive a Passat. You also won’t be excited by the Passat, but this is still a polished performer.

Key dates

5/05: The seventh-generation Passat saloon arrives (codenamed B6) with 1.6 FSi or 2.0-litre petrol engines along with 1.9 or 2.0 TDi units.

11/05: The estate goes on sale and a 3.2 V6 petrol engine joins the range.

6/06: A 2.0 TDi 170 engine appears.

2/07: The 300bhp 3.6-litre Passat R36 debuts.

4/08: The 1.6 FSi engine is replaced by the 1.4 TSi

10/08: The Passat Bluemotion 1.9 TDi arrives.

11/08: The Bluemotion 2.0 TDi appears.

5/09: The high-value R Line is introduced.

Checklist

  • Oil pumps can fail prematurely, especially on diesel engines – but they go without warning so you can’t check them.
  • You can have four-wheel drive if you want; the 2.0 TDi 140 and 3.2 V6 petrol were offered with it. They’re rare though.
  • There are ECUs in the footwells; water leaks can lead to these failing, followed by lots of electrical problems
  • Without sensors, parking can be a nightmare, especially where saloons are concerned.
  • All cars come with an electronic parking brake, which doesn’t always release properly as the pads can stick to the disc.
  • Batteries can go flat because of a current drain somewhere, often the radio – which in itself can be highly unpredictable.
  • Premature and uneven tyre wear is common on Passats with Dunlop rubber.

We like

  • Build quality
  • Image
  • Engines
  • Spacious cabin
  • Choice
  • Equipment levels

We don’t like

  • High purchase costs
  • Bland design

 

Richard Dredge

Dodge

Dodge Caliber (2006-2010)

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The Dodge Caliber was never highly regarded by the UK's motoring press, and while it was never especially competitive in the new car market, this Focus rival can make a lot more sense as a used buy. Well equipped and spacious, the Caliber is good value but not that refined or competitive dynamically. The big question mark is over its durability; many owners have found that mechanical parts need to be replaced way before they'd expect, so if you're a high-mileage driver, you might find investing in a cheap Caliber is a false economy.

Key Dates

4/06: The Caliber reaches UK showrooms with 1.8 petrol or 2.0 Volkswagen turbodiesel engines. There are S, SE, SXT and SXT Sport trim levels for each powerplant, with even the entry-level cars coming with decent equipment levels.

9/09: A facelifted Caliber is unveiled in the US, with a 2.2 diesel engine and upgraded interior. It's meant to come to the UK, but the car is canned before the revised car gets here.

Checklist

  • Check there's no slip in the clutch, as premature wear isn't unusual.
  • The front suspension can also wear quickly, so make sure the dampers aren't shot.
  • Brake discs don't last long either, while pads can also wear quickly.
  • The windows can squeak as they go up and down; permanent fixes tend to prove elusive.
  • The electrics and electronics can be temperamental, with dealers seemingly unable to fix some faults.
  • If replacement parts are needed, they can take a while to arrive now Dodge is defunct in the UK.

We Like

  • Value
  • Equipment
  • Practicality
  • Economy of diesel
  • Unusual

We Don't Like

  • Lack of durability
  • Cheap interior
  • Mediocre dynamics
  • Poor visibility

Renault

Renault Kangoo (1997-2008)

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Only the French would take something as utilitarian as a small van and turn it into an MPV, without trying to disguise its roots. It's a formula that works brilliantly though, because if you want tremendous practicality without having to spend much, cars like the Kangoo - and its Citroen Berlingo/Peugeot Partner rivals are unbeatable.

Key Dates

10/99: The Kangoo reaches UK showrooms in 1.4 petrol or 1.9 diesel forms.

11/01: The four-wheel drive Trekka edition arrives, with 1.6-litre petrol power only.

1/02: The Trekka is now available with a 1.9dCi engine.

4/02: A 1.5dCi engine joins the range.

4/03: The Kangoo gets a facelift, with revised front and rear styling plus an overhauled interior. A 1.2 petrol also joins the range.

4/04: Anti-lock brakes are standardised across the range.

Renault Kangoo (1997-2008) Checklist

  • The electrics can be fragile, so check they all work, including the headlamp beam adjusters.
  • Manual gearboxes can wear out in under 20,000 miles as the casing wears.
  • Automatic transmissions can also prove short-lived; make sure ratios swap cleanly.
  • The ignition coil packs can fail; once one goes, it's best to replace them all.
  • Cam belts can fail on 1.2-litre engines in less than 40,000 miles.
  • On the 1.5dCi engine, the exhaust gas recirculation valve can stick, leading to the turbo or even the whole engine self-destructing. If the turbo has been replaced, make sure the valve was renewed too.
  • Brakes pipes corrode at the back of the car, guaranteeing an MoT fail.

We Like

  • Practicality
  • Versatility
  • Spacious cabin
  • Comfortable ride

We Don't Like

  • Feels spartan
  • Breathless diesel engine

Ford

Ford Fusion (2002-2008)

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The Fusion sold badly because buyers didn't get it and neither did the press. It's easy to see why; you could hardly call the Fusion a looker and to make things worse the car was just as bland inside, with a disappointing lack of versatility. However, with most of the Fiesta's good points in evidence along with a higher driving position, the Fusion is not without merit.

Key Dates

8/02: The Fusion goes on sale, with a choice of 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol engines, or a 1.4-litre turbodiesel.

11/04: There's now a 1.6 TDCi engine available, with 89bhp.

10/05: Ford ditches the 1, 2 and 3 trim levels for Style, Climate and Zetec instead. At the same time, a facelift brings new bumpers, lights and grille, extra equipment and a revised dash.

Ford Fusion (2002-2008) Checklist

  • Water gets into the engine bay, causing damage to the plugs, leads and coil pack.
  • The end of the plastic dipstick of the 1.6 TDCI engine can break and drop into the sump; retrieving the errant part means removing the sump.
  • The timing belt tensioner can fail on the 1.4 TDCi engine; listen for a whirring noise.
  • The Durashift automated manual gearbox can be unreliable, as the system's brain can fail - expensively.
  • The electronic accelerator control can fail on the 1.4 petrol engine.
  • The pins holding the pedals in place can fall out, leading to an inability to brake or declutch.
  • Clutches can appear to fail, when it's actually only a spring washer coming loose behind the pedal.

We Like

  • Good to drive
  • Elevated driving position
  • Affordability
  • Spacious cabin

We Don't Like

  • Dull design
  • Lack of versatility

Porsche

Porsche Cayman (2006-2010)

Richard Dredge ·

Porsche shot itself in the foot when it released the Cayman. Here was a car so good that for many, it made the mighty 911 somewhat redundant. After all, the Cayman was just as quick in the real world and arguably even more of a looker, while it was also just as well made but just half the price. Used values are high because the car is just so capable, but try one on just the briefest of test drives and you'll see why the car commands such high prices - and why the 911 really is unnecessary.

Key Dates

1/06: The Cayman arrives, with a 245bhp 2.7-litre flat-six; selling alongside is the Cayman S, with a 295bhp 3.4-litre engine.

8/08: The Sport limited edition reaches showrooms, with a 303bhp engine. Based on the Cayman S, it features black 19" alloys and details, xenon lights, sports exhaust and more.

11/08: A revised Cayman goes on sale, with a 265bhp 2.9-litre engine; the Cayman S gets a 320bhp 3.4-litre unit.

Porsche Cayman (2006-2010) Checklist

  • The side windows can close outside their seals, leading to wind noise and - in the worst cases - water leaks too.
  • Stick with 17-inch wheels for general road use; larger wheels compromise the ride too much.
  • Facelifted cars are more substantially built than earlier examples, so even less likely to suffer from squeaks and rattles.
  • Pre-facelift cars can suffer from stonechipped paint all too readily.

We Like

  • Image
  • Build quality
  • Driving experience
  • Looks
  • Usability

We Don't Like

  • Used prices are high
  • Some cars are spartan

Citroen

Citroen C2 (2003-2010)

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Citroen's strength has long been its small cars, and if you're looking for convincing evidence, the C2 provides it in spades. Great aesthetically and dynamically, the C2 took over where the Saxo left off, designed for youth appeal but actually finding a much wider audience. It's not hard to see why; eminently affordable to buy and run, the C2 makes perfect urban transport, but can cope with so much more.

Key Dates

9/03: The C2 arrives with 1.1, 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol, or 1.4-litre turbodiesel engines.

12/03: The 1.6 GT appears.

5/04: ABS is now standard, and the Ministry of Sound special debuts, with an upgraded stereo.

8/04: The 1.6 VTS reaches showrooms.

12/05: The C2 Stop & Start arrives.

1/07: The Airplay, Code and by Loeb special editions are released.

7/07: A C2 1.6HDi VTS joins the range.

6/08: A facelift brings a new bonnet, bumpers and grille.

Citroen C2 (2003-2010) Checklist

  • On 1.4HDi engines, the cam belt tensioner can fail, so listen for a whirring/whining sound.
  • On the 1.6 VTS, the inlet manifold bolts can fall off.
  • Some of the interior plastics are flimsy and the fit and finish is inconsistent, so expect squeaks and rattles.
  • Catalytic converters can prove fragile, so put the car through an emissions test to make sure it's working.
  • The engine can run erratically, and either rev or cut out when left to idle; it's usually an ECU software update that's needed.
  • The C2's electrics can be temperamental, so make sure everything works, including the radio, windows, wipers and lights.

We Like

  • Agility
  • Low prices
  • Looks
  • Good engines

We Don't Like

  • Cramped interior
  • Inert steering

Tags: C2

Mazda

Mazda 5 (2005-2009)

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With its Ford Focus roots, the Mazda 5 is great to drive, yet it's comfortable too. Even better, thanks to its long wheelbase, the 5 offers comfort, space and practicality in equal measure. But thanks to a lack of awareness, even though the 5 isn't that common, depreciation can be savage - which only serves to make Mazda's compact MPV more appealing for the used buyer. But despite the Mazda being Japanese, reliability can be an issue.

Key Dates

6/05: The 5 replaces Mazda's slow-selling Premacy, with a choice of 1.8 or 2.0-litre petrol engines, plus a 2.0-litre turbodiesel. Unique in the segment is a set of sliding rear doors.

12/07: The 2.0 petrol models get a six-speed manual gearbox; this transmission had always featured in the diesel models.

2/08: There's now a five-speed auto option for the 2.0 petrol and CO2 emissions for all Mazda 5s are reduced.

1/10: An upgraded 5 offers extra standard kit and improved dynamics.

Mazda 5 (2005-2009) Checklist

  • Post-February 2008 cars are generally more reliable, better equipped and more luxuriously finished.
  • Newer cars also have lower CO2 emissions.
  • This isn't a true seven-seater; it's more of a 6+1 as the central middle seat is narrow.
  • Fuel economy can be an issue; even the diesels aren't always that frugal.
  • The sliding doors can stick, so check they slide freely.
  • Alarm systems can be erratic, usually going off when they shouldn't, sometimes the opposite.
  • Uneven tyre wear is common, especially with 17-inch wheels and Dunlop tyres.
  • The diesel engines can use a lot of oil.
  • Electrical faults are common and batteries can fail altogether.
  • Some interior plastics are flimsy, so they mark or get damaged all easily.

We Like

  • Good dynamically
  • Unusual
  • Good value
  • Well equipped

We Don't Like

  • Early cars unreliable
  • Not a true seven-seater

Tags: 5

Jaguar

Jaguar XJ (2003-2010)

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It may have looked like a relic from the 1960s, but the XJ of 2003 was pretty high-tech with its lightweight aluminium bodyshell and ultra-modern equipment. Very different from its German rivals, thanks to suspension that's cossetting rather than sporty, Jag's flagship saloon is fast, refined, frugal and generally reliable. It's also excellent value, so if you're looking for some seriously luxurious transport and you're on a tight budget, this could be the answer.

Key Dates

1/03: The X350 XJ debuts with 3.0 V6, 3.5 V8 or 4.2-litre V8 petrol engines, the latter in standard or long-wheelbase forms. There's also a 400bhp XJR with a supercharged 4.2-litre V8.

6/04: There are now Sport and Sport Premium editions of the 3.5 V8 available, plus Sovereign editions of the 3.0 V6 and 4.2 V8.

7/06: The V6 turbodiesel XJ TDVi arrives.

9/06: The XJR-based Portfolio special edition appears, with a sportier exterior design.

5/07: The XJ gets a facelift, with new bumpers, sill extensions, a revised wheel design and extra standard equipment.

Jaguar XJ (2003-2010) Checklist

  • Despite its aluminium structure, corrosion is common thanks to the use of steel rivets. Check around the bootlid, door pillars, door bottoms and wheelarches.
  • The rear brake pads don't last long, so check how much pedal travel there is.
  • Parking sensors can stop working, especially those at the rear.
  • Bi-metallic corrosion of the wheel nuts can lead to them seizing.

We Like

  • Comfort
  • Value
  • Economy
  • Performance
  • Equipment levels
  • Space
  • Reliability
  • Refinement

We Don't Like

  • Old-fashioned styling

Tags: XJ

Vauxhall

Vauxhall Astra (2004-2009)

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While Vauxhall's small family car was always outclassed, it has plenty to offer for those who care more about value than image or pin-sharp dynamics. So while there may not be much of a feel-good factor on offer from the Astra, a massive range of engines, trim levels and bodystyles ensure there's plenty of choice, prices are low, and so are running costs.

Key Dates

5/04: The fifth-generation Astra arrives, in five-door hatch form only.

7/04: A five-door estate joins the range.

1/05: The three-door Astra debuts, known as the Sport Hatch. At the same time, an LPG Astra is introduced.

4/05: The 240bhp VXR debuts, plus the 1.3CDTi.

1/06: A coupé-cabriolet appears, dubbed the Twin Top.

11/06: A facelift brings a fresh grille and headlights plus revised interior trim, along with a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine.

8/08: The Astra EcoFlex arrives, with a 1.7CDTi engine.

Vauxhall Astra (2004-2009) Checklist

  • Clutch judder on 1.6 and 1.8 petrol cars suggests a failed rear crankshaft oil seal.
  • Hand brakes can fail, which is why the car should be left in gear.
  • The hatchback's loading sill is high and narrow, making access awkward.
  • Worn front suspension bushes lead to wayward handling.
  • Early cars had radios that would switch themselves on when the car was left, leading to a dead battery.
  • The top of the front suspension turrets can corrode.
  • Electrical problems are common; especially lights, wipers, fuel gauges and central locking.

We Like

  • Value
  • Choice
  • Refinement
  • Standard kit
  • Comfortable ride

We Don't Like

  • Image
  • Relatively cramped cabin

Perodua

Perodua Kelisa (2002-2009)

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For motoring writers, the demise of the truly rubbish car is something that's been mourned for years; after all, what can we have a pop at now that Ladas have gone and Skodas are good? Perodua has been fair game for a while now, but take the time to look more closely and you'll see that Perodua owners are generally a happy bunch. Having usually paid a pittance for a car that's great in urban use and generally reliable, these cars aren't the dogs you might be led to believe.

Key Dates

1/02: The Kelisa is launched onto the UK market, with a 54bhp 989cc three-cylinder engine. There are three trim levels - EX, GX and EZ, the latter coming with a three-speed automatic gearbox as standard.

7/02: The previous trim levels are replaced by the EXi, GXi and EZi.

8/03: A facelift for the EXi and GXi brings a new tailgate spoiler, protective side mouldings and two-tone bumpers.

6/04: Another facelift means a redesigned nose and tail and revised materials for the interior.

Checklist

  • One of the key problems is a lack of dealers, although servicing isn't tricky and parts can sometimes be sourced from Daihatsu dealers.
  • Make sure you get both keys with the car; if just the one is supplied, get another cut. Lose both keys and the system has to be reprogrammed, at great expense.

We Like

  • Value
  • Economy
  • Reliability

We Don't Like

  • Basic cabin
  • Low-rent materials
  • Poor image

 

Vauxhall

Vauxhall Tigra (2004-2009)

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Baby coupé-cabriolets often end up as something of a joke - you've only got to look at the Mitsubishi Colt CZC and Nissan Micra CC for the proof. Some work better than others though, like Vauxhall's Tigra for example. Quick enough, reasonably well packaged and decent to drive with the roof up, things only go awry dynamically when the roof is dropped - which kind of defeats the object really.

Key Dates

5/04: The second-generation Tigra debuts, with 1.4 or 1.8-litre petrol engines.

12/04: The 1.3CDTi turbodiesel joins the range.

1/06: A new range-topping Tigra appears, the Exclusiv, with 1.4 or 1.8-litre petrol engines.

11/06: Vauxhall's Easytronic clutchless manual gearbox is available with the 1.4-litre engine. A special edition is also introduced, based on the Exclusiv and called the Exclusive, with a red leather interior.

3/07: The Exclusiv Red special edition debuts, based on the petrol-engined Tigra, with red leather trim and 17-inch alloy wheels.

4/08: The Sport Rouge limited edition arrives, available with any of the three engines.

Checklist

  • Water leaks through the side window seals into the doors and cabin.
  • The electric boot closing system is prone to failures and leaks.
  • The roof mechanism can play up.
  • Camshafts can fail worryingly quickly; make sure the engine idles and revs happily.
  • The electrics can be unreliable; check everything works.
  • Steering racks aren't always very durable.
  • Premature brake wear can be a problem, affecting discs and pads.

We Like

  • Practicality
  • Affordability
  • Design

We Don't Like

  • Bland cabin
  • Reliability
  • Vauxhall image

Bentley

Bentley Arnage (1998-2010)

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Few cars offer a sense of occasion like travelling - and arriving - in a Bentley. That's certainly the case with the Arnage, available for ridiculously small amounts of money. Sadly, despite low purchase prices, running costs tend to be high - so don't get carried away snapping up a cheap Arnage, only to find that it bankrupts you at the first service..

Key Dates

6/98: The Arnage debuts with a BMW 4.4-litre V8.

9/99: The Red Label Arnage appears, with the classic 400bhp 6.75-litre pushrod V8; from this point on, the BMW-engined Arnage is known as the Green Label.

1/02: A long-wheelbase version of the Red Label is now offered, along with the 450bhp Arnage T.

3/02: The Arnage R arrives.

3/03: The long-wheelbase Arnage RL appears, with a 450bhp V8.

11/06: The V8 gets an overhaul, with displacement rising to 6761cc and power jumping by 50bhp.

9/08: The run-out Arnage Final Series goes on sale.

Checklist

  • That bluff front easily gets damaged by flying debris, so check for paint chips.
  • Be wary of wacky colour schemes specified by first owners with more money than taste.
  • Alloy wheels don't age well, with peeling lacquer par for the course.
  • Interiors also don't necessarily age well; look for sagging leather, delaminating wood and tatty carpets.
  • The suspension and brakes have to work hard; check they're not tired, as they often are.
  • Check who has serviced the car; independent specialists are fine - but it needs to be somebody with a decent reputation.

We Like

  • Prestige
  • Comfort
  • Power
  • Value

We Don't Like

  • Running costs