What to watch out for

Gearbox gremlins
Some owners complain that the automatic gearbox is erratic and unreliable. Dealers can fit modified parts under warranty.

Cabin rattles
Some small items of trim can work loose, and rattles can develop. A poke around, and a test drive, should expose problems.

Airbag recalls
The Verso's airbag system has been the subject of two recalls. Dealers can tell straight away if they've been sorted.

Oil consumption
The 1.8-litre petrol engine can develop a thirst for oil. Dealers will change engine parts if it uses more than one litre of oil per 1000 miles.