Expert answer

Hi Eoin,

Have you tried the new Peugeot 3008? Great-looking, good to drive and comes with an (optional) six-speed auto. The 1.2-litre 130hp petrol turbo engine is the one to go for. Alternatively, you could try and grab a run-out Skoda Yeti (always one of our favourites and built like a tank), or have a look at the Toyota C-HR Hybrid, which is striking to look at and really good to drive. Here are our relevant reviews:

Peugeot 3008 review

Skoda Yeti review

Toyota C-HR Hybrid review

Expert answer

Hi Jakub,

Right, here’s what we’ve gleaned with a little help from Nissan and a dive into its archives…

There were basically two specifications of Primera from 2002 to 2008. The entry model was an SE, which came with a full colour display in the centre of the dash, trip computer, colour reversing camera (one of the first cars to deploy this tech, as I recall), climate control, power steering, front and rear electric windows, electric mirrors, height-and-lumbar adjustable driver's seat, CD player stereo with six speakers, ABS with EBD and brake assist, six airbags, front pretensioners for the seatbelts, remote central locking, alarm, 16-inch alloy wheels, front fogs, chrome door handles and body coloured mirrors.

The T-Spec model got all of that and added auto dimming rear view mirrors, auto wipers, leather trim, power and heated seats, steering wheel audio controls, premium audio system, active headrests, cruise control (for the 1.8 petrol model) and 17-inch alloys.

Expert answer

Hi Eric and thanks for the question,

Our advice would be to have this car thoroughly checked out mechanically. It sounds fine, but don't buy it if you yourself plan to rack up say 20,000km a year and bear in mind that it's not going to be worth a lot when you go to sell it in a few years, so I hope you're getting a good deal.

Also, it's worth getting a Cartell.ie history check to confirm its mileage and that it was not used as a taxi.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Colette,

Keep an eye out for turbo issues on the 1.5 diesel, and listen very carefully for any knocking coming from the suspension. Some of the interior fittings can be a bit fragile too. Other than that, they’re pretty solid, as long as you buy with a full service history. Oh and, yes, they’re economical — you should easily get 45-50mpg in daily driving.

Expert answer

Hi Eileen,

At 5,500 miles a year, diesel is most definitely not worth considering — you’re not doing anything like the mileage you’d need to do if you want to claw back the cost of buying a diesel in fuel savings, and maintenance costs could be high. As for which model to get, it kind of depends on your preferences. I’m getting the vibe that you’re not keen on the Micra, so maybe have a look at the likes of the VW Golf 1.0 TSI, Honda Civic 1.0 Turbo, or wait for a little while for the all-new Ford Focus or Toyota Auris to arrive.

Expert answer

Hi Samm,

That’s a bit of a tight budget, so I think the best thing is to find something Japanese. Either a Honda Jazz or a Nissan Micra auto, from circa 2007, should do the trick and both are hugely reliable. Just make sure you buy one with a full service history.

Expert answer

Hi Sean,

The last-generation Primera was generally speaking not as solidly built nor as reliable as earlier models, but it’s still a cut above average for its age, and should be solid enough as long as it comes with a full service history. That 1.6-litre will struggle with the weight of the car, though, so don’t expect to get much better than 35-40mpg out of it in daily driving, and check to see if it’s been used as a taxi in the past, as many were.

Expert answer

Hi John,

According to our calculations you'll pay €3,120 annually.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Moss,

We've scoured Carzone.ie with your budget and needs in mind. There are loads of diesel SUVs available at that price, though we've shortlisted the ones here we reckon would do the job for you:

- BMW X3 - economical, though you're looking at an older one at this price

- Honda CR-V - great option if you can find a good one

- Hyundai Tucson - plenty around, though not as 'nice' as premium models

- Mitsubishi Outlander - with Volkswagen's 2.0 TDI engine - good bet

- Nissan Qashqai - great all-rounder, though possibly not quite SUV-like for your tastes

- Peugeot 4008 - stylish, good diesel engine, should be able to afford post-2008 car

- Toyota RAV4 - safe bet, though will be pre-2008 on your budget

If you'd like us to help narrow down your search feel free to come back to us.

Expert answer

Hi Lisa,

That car is taxed according to its engine size, which is 2,184cc. Changes for the 2013 Budget mean road tax for this model has increased from €885 to €951 per year.

Hope that helps