Model tested: Nissan Primera 2.2dCi SVE
Price: £18,250
Date tested: March 2009
Road tester:Richard Dredge

Overall rating: 84%
Nissan's Primera has always been synonymous with affordable, practical family transport, which is why you can't argue with the fact that as an overall package, the Primera makes a tempting proposition.

1: Looks
Nissan has created a mid-sized family car that's distinctive, bland and ugly all at the same time, yet even though the car has been out of production for several years, it still doesn't look old-fashioned.
8/10

2: Looks inside
The Primera's dash has an air of high-tech but it's hardly a thing of beauty. It certainly looks inviting though, with plenty of toys, decent seats and build quality that's everything you'd expect from this Japanese marque.
8/10

3: Practicality
Whichever bodystyle you buy, there's masses of luggage capacity on offer. The hatch offers 780 litres with the seats down, but the estate can accommodate 1,670 litres. What isn't so good is rear seat head room.
8/10

4:Ride and Handling
The Primera has always been competent dynamically, with a focus on a comfortable ride rather than razor-sharp handling. There's body roll aplenty and the steering could offer more feedback, but it's pretty good overall.
8/10

5: Performance
The 2.2dCi is the best engine of all, with 136bhp and 232lb ft of torque. it's not as refined as some rivals, but with a fat slug of torque available from the lower end of the rev range, it's a very relaxing unit to drive.
9/10

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6: Running costs
The Primera is cheap to run thanks to affordable insurance levels and efficient engines; the 2.2dCi unit will return 50mpg all day on a run.
9/10

7: Reliability
Some Primeras have suffered from failed crankshaft sensors, a failed timing chain and tensioner and a rear anti-roll bar that's come adrift. Handbrakes can also fail, as can the electric windows and central locking.
7/10

8: Safety
The Primera has a four-star EuroNCAP rating with all cars having anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, six airbags and active head restraints.
8/10

9: Equipment
All Primeras get remote central locking, climate control, an alarm, CD player and electric front windows. Move up a level and there's also cruise control, powered rear windows, a CD autochanger and alloy wheels.
10/10

10: X-Factor
There are few good reasons to avoid the Primera, with its space, practicality, affordability and dynamic competence. It's well equipped too and generally reliable, while also being quick and safe. While everyone else clamours for a Mondeo, the Primera sits in the shadows; we'd suggest you take a closer look.
9/10