Nissan Primera Saloon (1999 - 2002) 2.0 16V Sport+ 4d Auto (6) (1999/V) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Sensible and middle aged male driver who appreciates value for money over looks or trends - in other words not a car snob.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They like the car, but think its a bit bland. Everyone that has travelled in it says how smooth the gearbox is, no jerky gearchanges at all.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I'd buy another Primera P11-144 yes, but not the newest P12 version that was produced after Renault became involved with Nissan in 2000 - it is rumoured to be lower quality and somewhat unreliable.

What are you likely to buy next?

Depends on how long I keep this car, but it would probably be a Toyota, as Nissan parts and service is now very poor quality. Its a shame they got involved with Renault - their cars are atrocious for reliability and durability.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£675

When did you buy the car?

November 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Bought car off an internet auction site and thought I paid a good price for it

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Nissan reliability and relative previously owned the same type of car. Cheap secondhand value.

What was the dealer like?

Private seller.

What's it like to drive?

Its a great car to drive - I love the CVT auto gearbox, not that common either the CVT versions, but its smooth and refined, with manual gear override should you want to go tiptronic. Great handling and really firm seats and suspension springs. Can be choppy though on rough roads. Fast and responsive but CVT does slightly take the edge off 0-60 times (11 secs). CVT gives the sensation of a slipping clutch when you put your foot down, but this is all normal and the car accelerates rapidly to "catch up" with the RPM's. I found the CVT took a bit of getting used to but now I love it.

What's it like to park?

Saloon a bit more tricky to judge the back of the car, and turning circle is not the best, but manageable. Power steering makes manouvering a doddle.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Had to spend on the usual consumables such as tyres, brake pads and discs, servicing, but expensive problems have been repairs to front suspension kingpin joint (£250) and both top arms (£180), and replacement of rear brake caliper which seized and overheated the wheel - also made handbrake faulty. Had to replace a remote key and that was very expensive (£150) from Nissan. Nissan dealers now very expensive for parts, not good since their involvement with Renault in 2000.

What's most practical about your car?

Its a Saloon, which are not as practical as the hatch or estate, but boot is large and seats still fold down so will hold a fair amount.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Car has climate control and a trip computer which I like, also has xenon headlights and headlamp washers. I absolutely love the CVT M6 automatic gearbox - wonderful bit of kit.