Buying Guides

Buying a car can be a stressful business. Which car is the most efficient, which the most environmentally-friendly? Which car will give the perfect balance between sportiness and comfort? The Reliability Index exists to help with at least one of these important questions – which car is the most reliable. But we know there are other considerations that every potential car buyer mulls over, which is why we’ve asked our motoring experts to give their verdicts on all 250 cars featured in the Index. Our buying guides tell you everything you need to know before you scour the classified ads looking for your bargain buy.

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Each guide contains a summary, key dates in the model’s development, a checklist of what to watch out for and our experts’ likes and dislikes about the car. Simply use the dropdown list below to choose the make and model you wish to view.

Latest Buying Guide

Porsche Cayman (2006-2010) Buying Guide by Richard DredgePorsche shot itself in the foot when it released the Cayman. Here was a car so good that for many, it made the mighty 911 somewhat redundant. After all, the Cayman was just as quick in the real world and arguably even more of a looker, while it was also just as well made but just half the price. Used values... Read More

Ford Fusion (2002-2008) Buying Guide by Richard DredgeThe Fusion sold badly because buyers didn't get it and neither did the press. It's easy to see why; you could hardly call the Fusion a looker and to make things worse the car was just as bland inside, with a disappointing lack of versatility. However, with most of the Fiesta's good points in evidence along... Read More

Renault Kangoo (1997-2008) Buying Guide by Richard DredgeOnly the French would take something as utilitarian as a small van and turn it into an MPV, without trying to disguise its roots. It's a formula that works brilliantly though, because if you want tremendous practicality without having to spend much, cars like the Kangoo - and its Citroen Berlingo/Peugeot... Read More

Citroen C2 (2003-2010) Buying Guide by Richard DredgeCitroen's strength has long been its small cars, and if you're looking for convincing evidence, the C2 provides it in spades. Great aesthetically and dynamically, the C2 took over where the Saxo left off, designed for youth appeal but actually finding a much wider audience. It's not hard to see why; eminently... Read More