A new MPV for a new arrival
I am thinking of buying a 2005 Renault Grand Scenic Diesel, would you recommend it? Are there problems with electrics or the engine or any other problems I should know about?
Should I go for a Citroen Xsara Picasso 1.6 diesel instead? I need room for 3 baby seats. Money is tight so cannot go above 2005.
May 2010 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi Ray
I understand that your Corolla saloon has 68,000 km (42,000 miles) on it. Prices seem to be fairly consistent for them and you should probably expect about €8,000 - €9,000 as a trade-in, which isn't bad because your mileage is quite low.
Your budget is €4,000 and you need a seven-seater and you want something that is going to be reliable, comfortable and safe. I understand that you are being asked to spend €3,000 with your own car for a 2005 model and €4,500 for a 2006 model Scenic. This seems a little steep to me and steep to our Renault advisor. Also the Scenic, as it ages doesn't always stand up in terms of reliability.
However, if money is an issue, I would be inclined to go for a petrol version of the Scenic, which can be picked up for half the price of the petrol models.
However if you want something reliable I would think you might stick with Toyota and get a Verso.
Something like this 1.6-litre petrol model would be a super buy and it is from an SIMI dealer.
Complete Car Adviser