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

Hyundai

Hyundai Trajet (2000-2008)

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Budget MPVs come no more affordable than here, but don't be blinded by the attractive used values, because running costs can be high. Fuel and maintenance costs can be wallet-wilting and despite the fact that a five-year warranty was standard, the Trajet isn't always as reliable as you'd hope. Refinement also leaves a lot to be desired - but despite all this, the Trajet is a lot of car for the money.

Key Dates

6/00: The Trajet debuts, with a 2.0-litre petrol engine only.

1/01: There's now a 2.7-litre V6 petrol engine also offered.

6/01: A 2.0-litre turbodiesel joins the range.

2/02: All models get dual air-con as standard, apart from the 2.0 petrol which has to wait another year.

6/04: A facelift brings a new radiator grille, fresh rear lights, a revised dash and extra standard equipment. There's also a new engine for the 2.0-litre petrol model.

Hyundai Trajet (2000-2008) Checklist

  • Alternators can fail prematurely because they're badly misaligned.
  • Manual gearboxes can prove weak, and replacement costs are high.
  • Anti-lock brake sensors can fail (an MoT failure)
  • The front suspension top mounts can fail, leading to the car collapsing.
  • The interior trim can prove fragile.
  • Windscreen wiper mechanisms sometimes prove to be weak.
  • Check servicing costs before buying; franchised dealers can be costly.
  • Front tyres don't wear well because of the weight over the front axle.
  • Brake discs also wear quickly because of the car's weight.

We Like

  • Value
  • Space
  • Practicality

We Don't Like

  • Thirsty petrol engines
  • Cheap interior plastics
  • Poor refinement

Citroen

Citroen Berlingo Multispace (1999-2009)

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Enjoy your own slice of France with this van-based family car that offers superb flexibility and practicality, and it's not bad to drive either. Most examples are plasticky and fairly spartan, but when it comes to carrying people or luggage, the Berlingo is just the ticket thanks to acres of space and large numbers of cubby holes.

Key Dates

4/99: The Berlingo Multispace arrives with a choice of 1.4 or 1.8-litre petrol engines plus a 1.9-litre diesel.

11/00: There's now a 1.6-litre petrol engine available.

1/02: A 110bhp 2.0HDi (turbodiesel) joins the range.

10/02: A facelift brings a redesigned nose and dash.

5/04: Anti-lock brakes and a passenger airbag are now standard on all models.

10/05: A 1.6HDi (turbodiesel) is introduced in 75bhp and 92bhp forms.

6/06: The Berlingo XTR debuts.

Citroen Berlingo Multispace (1999-2009) Checklist

  • The rear suspension pivots can wear, and repairs are costly.
  • Using the windscreen washers in frosty weather tends to blow fuses, leading to wider problems in the multiplex wiring.
  • Instruments can play up because of the multiplex wiring, but this is rare.
  • Some early cars can suffer from broken springs in the front suspension.
  • Check the service history of HDi models; if the timing belt has been replaced, so should the rubber cushioned timing belt pulley have been, at the same time.
  • Gear linkages on petrol cars can fall apart; check for play in the gearchange.
  • Water can leak into the cabin, flooding the ECU, so check for dampness.

We Like

  • Flexibility
  • Practicality
  • Economy
  • Space

We Don't Like

  • Flimsy interior plastics
  • Unsupportive seats

Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi Outlander (2004-2006)

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It was ugly, available only with a thirsty 2.4-litre petrol engine and didn't offer as much cabin flexibility as key rivals from Honda, Toyota or Nissan. It's no wonder the first-generation Outlander is spotted only on very rare occasions. If you can afford the fuel bills, the Outlander is still worth a look though, thanks to excellent reliability, a spacious and flexible cabin plus four-wheel drive as standard on all examples. As a result, the Outlander makes an excellent tow car - as long as you can afford the petrol.

Key Dates

10/03: The first-generation Outlander is launched, with a 2.4-litre petrol engine only.

3/04: There's now a dual-fuel option, as the 2.4-litre engine can be ordered in petrol/LPG spec.

12/06: The second-generation Outlander goes on sale, available only with a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine.

Mitsubishi Outlander (2004-2006) Checklist

  • The Outlander is popular for towing, so check the rear suspension and make sure the clutch hasn't been given a hard time.
  • The off-roading ability is surprisingly good, so check that the underside hasn't been damaged from any excursions into the rough.
  • Suspension bushes can wear prematurely, leading to uneven tyre wear - especially on cars that have been used for off-roading.
  • Worn suspension bushes can also lead to the car pulling to one side under braking.

We Like

  • Reliability
  • Practicality
  • Spacious cabin
  • Equipment levels
  • Towing ability

We Don't Like

  • High running costs
  • Exterior styling
  • Inert handling
  • Petrol engines only

Fiat

Fiat Ulysse (2003-2006)

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If you don't want a Citroen C8 or Peugeot 807, how about a Fiat Ulysse? They're all the same car of course, but while the others are occasionally spotted, the Fiat is already almost extinct. That's because the car sold badly thanks to a reputation for poor reliability - a reputation that isn't entirely undeserved. Indifferent dealers did little to help Fiat's reputation, but find a good specialist and this could be just the cheap MPV you've been looking for.

Key Dates

1/03: The second-generation Ulysse goes on sale with a 2.0-litre petrol engine plus a choice of 2.0 or 2.2-litre turbodiesel engines.

Fiat Ulysse (2003-2006) Checklist

  • The balljoints in the front suspension can fail, so listen for creaks and check if there have already been any replacements fitted.
  • ECUs play up, so check for rough running, poor cold starting and misfires.
  • Electrics can be very troublesome, so ensure everything works - sliding doors, central locking, air-con, radio, sat-nav - the lot. Then check again.
  • Interior trim gets broken easily, especially if boisterous kids have been on board.
  • Tyres wear rapidly; swapping to 16-inch items with lower profile rubber can make the difference.
  • Handbrakes can fail, refusing to hold the car.
  • Power steering systems fail; see how heavy the system is.
  • Cam belts can corrode after water gets into the engine compartment, leading to premature failure of the belt.

We Like

  • Cheap
  • Spacious
  • Comfortable
  • Great diesels
  • Well kitted out
  • Unusual

We Don't Like

  • Poor reliability

Chevrolet

Chevrolet Kalos (2002-2008)

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It started out as a Daewoo and ended up as a Chevrolet - but whatever the logo on the nose, this wasn't one of GM's finest. Not what you'd call a real howler, the Kalos wasn't so much a bad car as one that was completely overshadowed by much more capable rivals - so only buy one if the price is right or you're desperate to make an anti-style statement.

Key Dates

10/02: Daewoo Kalos launched, with a 1.4-litre petrol engine only.

4/03: A 1.2-litre petrol engine is now offered, while there's a new engine for the 1.4 SX.

1/05: The Kalos is a Chevrolet from here on, and it's still offered with 1.2 or 1.4-litre petrol engines.

8/05: The engines are now Euro IV compliant, plus the Ikon special edition arrives, with the 1.4-litre engine only.

Chevrolet Kalos (2002-2008) Checklist

  • The interior plastics are of poor quality and bits come adrift all too easily; check it's all intact.
  • Engines can coke up, so check for misfiring, exhaust smoke and rough running.
  • Scraped bodywork and knocked-out tracking are common, as these are popular urban runabouts.
  • The engines emit more CO2 than you'd think (153-169g/km) so don't expect cheap road tax.
  • The seats aren't very supportive, so make sure you're going to be comfortable on a long journey.

We Like

  • Low purchase costs
  • Equipment levels

We Don't Like

  • Poor crash safety
  • Rubbish handling
  • Firm ride
  • Flimsy interior trim
  • Weak performance
  • Poor fuel economy