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

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

Fiat

Fiat Panda (2004-2012)

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Fiat's forté has long been producing great small cars, so it came as no surprise when its Panda claimed the 2004 Car of the Year award. Even now the Panda looks fresh and continues to impress owners with its wide-ranging talents such as its agility, economy and practicality. It's also far better built than some cars from the Fiat stable, so reliability tends not to be much of an issue. In short, the Panda makes a brilliantly affordable runabout.

Key Dates

1/04: The Panda arrives with 1.1 or 1.2-litre petrol engines and front-wheel drive.

2/05: There's now a 4x4 option, with the 1.2-litre petrol engine only. A 1.3 Multijet turbodiesel also appears.

12/06: The 1.4-litre Panda 100HP is introduced

8/08: The Panda Cross debuts in 1.3 Multijet form only, with more aggressive SUV styling.

9/08: The 119g/km Panda Eco arrives, with a 1.1 petrol engine.

9/09: A facelift brings a redesigned dash, revised grille and fresh door mirrors.

Fiat Panda (2004-2012) Checklist

  • The tailgate release mechanism can jam.
  • Not all cars came with a lockable fuel cap.
  • While 1.2-litre cars are the most plentiful, the 1.1 is fine for cars used mainly around town.
  • The windscreen seal can leak, leading to water getting into the cabin. Look for water in the footwells.
  • All Pandas have electric power steering, which has been known to fail.
  • Clutch master cylinders wear out, leading to baulking when changing gear.
  • The Multijet diesel engine is great, but some owners aren't happy with its fuel or oil consumption.

We Like

  • Comfort
  • Spacious cabin
  • Practicality
  • Agility
  • Economy
  • Reliability

We Don't Like

  • Some are very basic
  • Small boot
  • Leisurely performance

BMW

BMW 1 Series (2004-2011)

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Years after the debuts of key rivals such as the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class, BMW unleashed its own posh small hatch with the 1-Series. In true Bavarian fashion there were superb engines and a great rear-wheel drive chassis, while the 1-Series was also beautifully built and brilliant to drive. But while the 1-Series proved controversial with its challenging styling and high prices, the car was a success for its maker and now makes a great used buy.

Key Dates

5/04: The 1-Series five-door hatch arrives, in 116i, 118i, 120i, 118d and 120d forms.

9/05: The first hot 1-Series appears; the 265bhp six-cylinder 130i.

3/07: A three-door hatch debuts, along with a high-power 2.0-litre diesel (the 123d). At the same time, all models get reprofiled bumpers and lights.

7/07: A 1-Series coupé arrives, in 135i, 120d and 123d guises.

3/08: A Convertible 1-Series is introduced, with a choice of petrol engines; the 125i coupé and convertible also debut.

7/08: There are now 118d and 123d convertibles.

1/09: The 116d debuts.

9/09: 118d and 120i versions of the coupé are now offered.

12/10: The 340bhp 1-Series M Coupé now tops the range.

BMW 1 Series (2004-2011) Checklist

  • Optional run-flat tyres means the ride is firm; M Sport editions are even firmer.
  • Manual diesel cars suffer from failure of the dual-mass flywheel; it's a costly fix.
  • Some early petrol-powered cars suffer ECU failures, requiring a new unit.
  • The run-flat tyres are costly, so make sure what's fitted doesn't need to be replaced in the near future.
  • Steering racks can wear quickly; many have already been replaced. Check for fluid leaks from the gaiters.
  • The 120d's turbocharger can prove short-lived; watch out for excessive oil smoke from the exhaust when accelerating.

We Like

  • Dynamics
  • Build quality
  • Efficient engines
  • Engine choice
  • Lots of bodystyles

We Don't Like

  • High purchase and running costs
  • Cramped rear seats
  • Awkward styling

Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo Brera (2005-2011)

Tony Orsi ·

 

Jaw-dropping looks normally come with a massive price tag, but buy an Alfa Romeo Brera and you get one of the most distinctive cars on the road, for peanuts. Even better, running costs needn’t be high and the interior looks almost as good as the exterior – even if it offers limited practicality. Best of all though, as a Brera owner you shouldn’t dread every drive, as this is an Alfa of the new generation, and it’s all the better for it. There was a time when you’d buy an Alfa Romeo only with your heart; with the Brera you can buy with your head.

Key Dates

4/06: The Brera arrives with a choice of 2.2 or 3.2-litre petrol engines, the latter a V6 unit available in front-drive or Q4 (four-wheel drive) forms. There's also a 2.4 turbodiesel. 

10/07: A semi-auto transmission is introduced on the Brera 3.2 V6; the 2.4 JTD becomes the JTDm, with an extra 10bhp (now 210bhp). 

5/08: The Brera S, developed with Prodrive, features a chassis tailored to UK roads. Limited to just 500 examples, it's available with 2.2 or 3.2 petrol engines only.

Alfa Romeo Brera (2005-2011) Checklist

  • 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.
  • Petrol-engines are chain-driven; diesels have a belt.
  • The rear seats are very cramped.
  • Electrics and electronics can be temperamental, so check the central locking, stereo and boot release.
  • All Breras come with 18-inch alloy wheels as standard; watch for kerbed wheels as repairs can be expensive.

We Like

  • Distinctive looks
  • Image
  • Great engines

We Don't Like

  • Limited practicality
  • Thirsty (but characterful) V6

Audi

Audi A6 (2004-2011)

Richard Dredge ·

Beautifully built, ergonomically perfect and good (if not necessarily great) to drive, the A6 makes a great used buy; it also looks smart and is ultra-capacious in avant (estate) form. With a choice of great engines and the availability of quattro four-wheel drive, the A6 also makes an excellent tow car. Running costs can be steep on high-mileage cars though, thanks to high parts and labour costs, so buy with care.

Key Dates

3/04: The third-generation A6 saloon arrives with 2.4, 3.2 and 4.2-litre petrol engines, or a 3.0 TDi turbodiesel.

6/04: There's now a 2.0 TDi powerplant.

10/04: A 2.7 TDi engine joins the range.

1/05: The estate, or Avant, goes on sale.

12/06: The 2.4 is replaced by a 2.8FSi powerplant.

9/08: A facelift brings extra standard equipment, a revised nose and tail while a 3.0 TFSi engine supersedes the 3.2 and 4.2 FSi units. The eco-friendly 2.0 TDie also arrives.

Audi A6 (2004-2011) Checklist

  • The dual-mass flywheel can fail on 2.0 TDIs, leading to stalling and a failed clutch.
  • Manual-gearbox 2.0 TDis suffer from rough running, through injector seals melting because of poor-quality fuel being used.
  • The pollen filter seal can fail, leading to water leaking into the footwells.
  • A6 2.0TDis with the Multitronic gearbox can stall, because the transmission can't cope with engine braking.
  • Fuel gauges can read empty even when the tank is full.
  • A software upgrade might be needed to fix a fault with the electronic parking brake refusing to release.
  • The TDi engines can use a litre of oil every 1,000 miles.
  • Rear light cluster seals can fail, allowing water to get in.

We Like

  • Image
  • Build quality
  • Used value
  • Great engines
  • Refinement
  • Equipment levels
  • Capacious estate
  • quattro 4WD option

We Don't Like

  • Potentially high running costs

Tags: A6

Lamborghini

Lamborghini Murcielago (2002-2010)

News Editor ·

When it comes to extreme supercars, few can compete with Lamborghini. So when the Italian icon produces a range-topper, you can expect something spectacular - and that's exactly what the Murcielago is. With eye-popping styling, neck-snapping performance and wallet-wilting running costs, owning a Murcielago is an extreme experience that's not for the faint-hearted. But if you've got the funds, why wouldn't you?

Key Dates

3/02: The Murcielago coupé arrives in the UK, with a 571bhp 6192cc V12.

11/03: The 40th Anniversary goes on sale; 50 are made with cosmetic changes only. The e-gear is also introduced with an electro-hydraulic gear change.

7/04: The Murcielago Roadster debuts, mechanically identical to the coupé.

5/05: There are now stronger brakes and redesigned wheels.

3/06: Carbon-ceramic brakes are now an £8000 option, and the LP640 is announced, with a 640bhp 6496cc V12.

9/06: The Murcielago Versace goes on sale.

3/09: The 650bhp LP650-4 Roadster appears, along with the 670bhp LP670-4 SuperVeloce coupé.

Checklist

  • The anti-roll bar bushes perish, leading to knocking noises. Fresh bushes are cheap and easy to DIY fit.
  • Tyres and brakes are hugely costly to replace, so make sure there's plenty of wear left in them.
  • Wheels get kerbed easily and are phenomenally costly to replace; if they're magnesium, they can't be repaired, only replaced. Be careful of aftermarket rims; they can cause endless issues.
  • Misfiring can be caused by faulty coil packs or lambda sensors, along with incorrect spark plugs being fitted.
  • If the engine hunts, it's probably down to a throttle body that's out of adjustment.
  • The door locks play up when the striker plates go out of adjustment or damp gets into the electrics.

We Like

  • Performance
  • Handling
  • Exclusivity
  • Design
  • Cabin
  • Sound

We Don't Like

  • Running costs

Mazda

Mazda RX-8 (2003-2010)

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When Mazda introduced the RX-8, it made the rotary engine mainstream once more. Buyers lapped up this neatly styled family coupé-cum-saloon with its rear-hinged back doors and curvy bodywork, to revel in its cocooning cabin and to enjoy its brilliant rear-wheel drive handling. The shine has now dulled somewhat; low values have led to many examples being neglected, which is why you have to have your wits about you when buying. But source a good example, and you'll be rewarded with one of the most engaging family cars of the past decade.

Key Dates

1/03 :The RX-8 arrives, in 189bhp and 228bhp forms.

2/06 :The 228bhp Evolve limited edition appears.

9/06 :The 189bhp Nemesis special reaches showrooms.

1/07 :The PZ and Kuro debut, each with 228bhp.

7/08 :A facelifted RX-8 is here, now badged R3, in 228bhp form only.

Mazda RX-8 (2003-2010) Checklist

  • The RX- gets through fuel and oil at quite a rate, so if you're a high-mileage driver, running costs will quickly add up.
  • The anti-roll bar links fail, leading to the car leaning in corners more heavily.
  • The rotary engine is designed to use oil; fail to top up regularly and the engine will seize.
  • A compression test is essential, to check the engine's health. Also see how old the plugs and leads are.
  • Make sure the clutch isn't slipping, as premature failures aren't unknown.
  • The pipe from the oil cooler corrodes, leading to the engine losing its oil, then seizing.
  • Ensure the xenon headlights work properly, as water gets in then wrecks everything.
  • It's worth having an emissions test, as the catalytic converters are prone to failure.

We Like

  • Styling
  • Handling
  • Smooth engine
  • Relative practicality
  • Cabin design
  • Affordability
  • Reliability

We Don't Like

  • Rear seat access
  • Thirst for oil and petrol
  • Lack of torque

Mercedes

Mercedes CLK (2002-2010)

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When it comes to relatively attainable premium cars, nothing can top a Mercedes. Generally seen as a cut above posh rivals, that three-pointed star is very appealing, and when a car looks this good it's easy to see why. But the CLK was introduced when Mercedes was at its lowest, and it's a model that was frequently not as well built as it should have been. So while it's highly desirable in many ways, it can also be frustrating to own - which is why you need to buy with caution.

Key Dates

4/02: The second-generation CLK debuts, in 200K, 240K, 320 and 500 petrol forms, plus the diesel CLK270 CDi.

9/02: The CLK55 AMG coupé arrives.

5/03: The second-generation CLK cabriolet appears.

6/05: A facelift brings a three-louvre radiator grille, revised front bumper and redesigned tail lights. The CLK200K is boosted from 163bhp to 184bhp, while the CLK280 and CLK350 replace the CLK240K and CLK320 respectively. The CLK220 CDi and CLK320 CDi also debut.

9/06: The crazy CLK63 AMG arrives, in coupé and cabriolet forms.

11/06: The entry-level CLK 200K arrives.

Mercedes-Benz CLK (2002-2010) Checklist

  • The interior trim is disappointingly fragile; check it's all intact.
  • Squeaks, creaks and rattles are also likely; some can be hard to eradicate.
  • The electrical system can throw up numerous problems, so ensure everything works as it should.
  • The absence of a B-pillar means wind noise can be intrusive if the windows don't seal properly - which they often don't.
  • The alloy wheels can corrode badly, so check the lacquer isn't bubbling.
  • Tyres can wear rapidly and unevenly, so see how much tread is left.

We Like

  • Image
  • Cruising abilities
  • Diesel engines
  • V6 petrol engines

We Don't Like

  • Costly to buy
  • 4-cylinder petrol engines
  • Weak trim
  • Manual gearboxes