Kia

Kia Sportage (2004-2010)

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After the mediocre first-generation Sportage, Kia's second take on the model was a massive improvement. Chunkier looks, a decent diesel engine, OK dynamics and plenty of standard kit made the Sportage a tempting proposition. It wasn't class leading, but when it came to reliability, few 4x4s had a better reputation. It's handy in the rough too, and offers plenty of cabin space, so if you're looking for a 4x4 and you're not out to impress anyone, check out the Sportage.

Key Dates

12/04: The second-generation Sportage reaches showrooms with 2.0 or 2.7 V6 petrol engines, or a 2.0CRDi diesel.

1/06: There's now a high-output 2.0CRDi available, with 138bhp instead of 111bhp.

4/07: The limited-run Titan arrives.

7/07: The Xi special edition debuts.

10/07: There's now a two-wheel drive option, with an automatic gearbox only. From here, all 2.0CRDi editions have the 138bhp engine and a six-speed manual gearbox (previously a five-speed).

4/08: The XR limited edition appears.

8/08: A facelift brings a redesigned grille, headlamps, tail lights, alloys plus modified wheelarches. There's extra standard equipment too.

Kia Sportage (2004-2010) Checklist

  • The brake pad wear sensor doesn't always work, leading to the brake discs getting damaged. Listen for untoward noises when braking.
  • The gearchange can become very stiff, with gear selection frustratingly difficult.
  • Be wary of a noisy gearbox too; complete failure is not unknown.
  • Diesel injectors can seize and/or fail.

We Like

  • Value
  • Ample kit levels
  • Spacious cabin
  • Reliability

We Don't Like

  • Lacklustre image
  • So-so dynamics
  • Cheap cabin plastics

Volkswagen

Volkswagen Sharan (1995-2010)

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The first-generation Sharan was on sale for an astonishing 15 years, so it was inevitably long in the tooth by the time it went out of production. A relative lack of cabin flexibility, little in the way of cutting-edge technology or safety features plus a cramped cabin for seven all betray the Sharan's age. But for value, strength and surprisingly good dynamics the Sharan is still well worth a closer look - especially as there are plenty to choose from.

Key Dates

8/95: The Sharan debuts, with 2.8 V6 petrol or 1.9 turbodiesel engines.

10/97: Two new petrol engines appear; a normally aspirated 2.0 and the 1.8T.

5/00: A facelifted Sharan brings a redesigned nose, tail and interior, plus slightly increased track and wheelbase.

1/03: A 130bhp 1.9TDi engine is now available.

11/03: Another facelift brings a new grille, bonnet and tail lights.

11/04: A 4WD Sharan 1.9TDi debuts.

2/07: A 2.0TDi engine is now offered.

5/08: The 2.0TDi Bluemotion appears.

Volkswagen Sharan (1995-2010) Checklist

  • Some early cars were personal imports; check they're to UK spec.
  • Wiper motors get waterlogged, so the wipers won't switch off. Repairs are costly.
  • Some earlier cars suffer from water leaks into the cabin. Water gets in through the ventilation system and wrecks the ECU/electrics.
  • Turbochargers can fail on TDi models; look for black exhaust smoke and check the service history for signs of regular oil changes.
  • Five and six-speed manual gearboxes on TDi models can be weak.
  • Cam belts are best replaced after 60-70,000 miles, or they snap and wreck the engine.
  • Oil pumps can fail on 2.0TDi engines.

We Like

  • Seats seven
  • Strong
  • Good to drive
  • Excellent diesels
  • Plenty about

We Don't Like

  • Cramped interior
  • Inflexible cabin

Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo GT (2004-2010)

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You can always count on Alfa Romeo to serve a hefty slice of style, and that's exactly what the GT provides. Far more characterful than rivals like the BMW 3-Series or Audi A5, the front-wheel drive GT is one of the most distinctive sporting coupés around, with eye-catching lines courtesy of Bertone. Based on the Alfa Romeo 156, the GT is a genuine four-seater that's more reliable than you might think and great value too.

Key Dates

4/04: The GT arrives, with 2.0 or 3.2 V6 petrol engines, or a 1.9 turbodiesel.

1/07: The 2.0 JTS appears with direct injection. The limited edition Blackline features 18-inch alloys, metallic black paint and a sportier interior. The 1.9 JTDm gets Multijet injection and is available with a Q2 limited-slip diff.

7/08: The special edition Cloverleaf (in 2.0 JTS or 1.9 JTDm guises) has 18-inch alloys, sporty exterior highlights plus a leather-trimmed interior.

Alfa Romeo GT (2004-2010) Checklist

  • Electrics and electronics can be temperamental; the central locking, stereo and boot release are the most commonly affected areas. They can also be tricky to fix too.
  • All GTs get alloy wheels as standard, measuring up to 18 inches in diameter; watch out for kerbing damage as repairs can be expensive.
  • Uneven front tyre wear is common; a four-wheel alignment is essential if problems aren't to crop up.
  • Water pumps fail on diesels; a new one is recommended every 60,000 miles.
  • The GT can struggle to put its power down, so go for a car with the Q2 limited-slip diff.

We Like

  • Looks
  • Image
  • Interior
  • Value
  • Great diesel engine
  • Space for four

We Don't Like

  • Poor visibility
  • 3.2 V6 is thirsty

Tags: GT

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