Nissan Almera Saloon (00 - 06) review

If you see a large queue snaking around the corner, you can be pretty sure it's not made up of punters eager to snap up second-hand Nissan Almera. Still, that lack of desirability means low prices - there are bargains to be had.

The biggest engine, the 134bhp 2.2-litre turbodiesel, promises 47.9mpg, whereas at the other end of the scale the small 97bhp 1.5-litre should be good for 42.8mpg.

Even having work carried out by a main Nissan dealer need not be too dear because their hourly rates are about as cheap as they come. The work will be cheaper still at an independent garage, where the rates are very competitive for the class.