Renault Modus (2004 - 2012) 1.5 dCi Dynamique (80bhp) 5d (AC) (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Some may say 'elderly' - I think it's a funky little thing. I'm 30 and my wife is 29, so you don't have to be old! It has a certain charm and character and it's unpretentious - you'll always get let out at junctions! I love my cars, and I like cars to be interesting. My wife previously had an Audi A2 TDI - this is more comfortable, far more reliable, safer, and half the price. It's a hidden gem, but most people have never even heard of it!

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

A lot of people were initially unimpressed but have seen its hidden talents. Everyone is jealous of it's incredible fuel economy, and the fact that 4 adults did 400 miles in it in complete comfort (and only used half a tank) was the icing on the cake. Everyone loves the panoramic sunroof!

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, but we intend on keeping this for a while yet. My wife has done 8000 miles in it, and it has barely cost us anything. It has done 86000 miles but barely shows any signs of wear.

What are you likely to buy next?

This will be a hard act to follow for the price. What else is so characterful, safe, frugal and well equipped for £2000?!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,000

When did you buy the car?

October 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

The car was an Ebay purchase from a main dealer. It had a cracked front bumper and very little reference to service history. The car was cheap, but unnecessarily so - the bumper was replaced for less than £100 and the car had a full Renault history, including a recent cambelt change!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Economy, safety, practicality, value, spec.

What was the dealer like?

Ok, but sold as seen as a trade sale - their loss!!

What's it like to drive?

I love it! I'm a car nut, and got this for my wife's commute as it's ultra economical (i.e. 70mpg at a steady 70mph!!). But I find myself jumping in it instead of my BMW because it's such a fun, honest little car. It has a bit of body roll and it's not quick at all, but it makes you smile. It's a happy car!

What's it like to park?

Easy! It's deceptively short, so parking is a doddle. the completely squared off rear end means reversing is ultra easy, and the huge windows mean visibility is excellent.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Only a couple of minor niggles - 'check emissions' light came on but it ran fine. I cleaned the EGR valve and it reset itself and has been perfect. The brake caliper needed replacing but that was just wear and tear.

What's most practical about your car?

I can't believe how flexible the car is - we went on holiday in it with 2 friends - the adjustable rear seat gave them plenty of legroom and enough boot space for all our baggage. When we need a big boot you can slide the rear seat forward, or if you slide the rear seat all the way back it has more legroom than a limo!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The panoramic sunroof is fantastic - together with huge windows, the whole car is flooded with daylight. The huge glass roof opens, so you can get a tan as you drive!!