USED Nissan Almera Tino MPV (00 - 05)

My car

A reliable, economical family car which has covered 60,000 plus miles in just over two years with minimum costs. A critism would be the quality of the paintwork, it is very easily scratched.

My car

This is my second Tino. There is plenty of room and it is an absolutely lovely car to drive!

I have a reversing mirror, which is brilliant when hitching up to caravan. I would definitely have a third one.

My car

An excellent mini MPV. The drive is good. Seating and cabin conditions are good. The 1.8 engine gives good results around town and on the open road.

The only downside to the vehicle is the anti-theft system, which I have had bad times with. The vehicle has been off the road for a total of five weeks and its seems neither dealer nor Nissan has a clue what is wrong.

This experience has completely knocked me for six, I have paid my money for the car now now get on with it.

I am a two car Nissan owner but not for much longer.

My car

Having suffered numerous electrical problems, I was keen to offload my new shape Megane much sooner than was expected.

I took advantage of a generous trade-in and a special offer, including leather trim etc, and purchased a Tino 1.8 SE.

I was searching for reliability above all - but if I got comfort, economy and good manners as well I would be well pleased after my the brittle Megane.

So far I have been pleased. The paintwork, fit and finish and general "build quality" are to a high standard and the performance and handling has been a pleasant surprise.There is a fair degree of body roll in the tighter corners but this is well controlled and the 1.8 petrol engine is eager - but coarse above 4000 rpm.

The seats are supportive and comfortable (the two don't always go hand in hand!) and the car is reasonably quiet - but the size of the interior can mean a bit of road noise resonates round the cabin on poor surfaces.

The steering is fine but the long throw of the gear lever - especially from side to side - can catch you out initially. The minor controls do take some getting used to but once mastered are okay. However, the screen and cursor type system is not an adequate substitute for clear dials and big buttons.

The cabin's plasticky, light-grey ambience initially seems a little cheap, but is bright and airy.