The Hatch - Nissan Primera

Mark and Stephanie Branfield were rushed into buying their Nissan Primera five-door 18 months ago – but it has turned out to be an excellent choice.

Mark told us: “When my previous car packed up, I needed something in a hurry. I snapped up this hatchback, and it has never given us any trouble.

“The running costs are one of the Nissan’s strongest points; the most recent service cost only £160, while it’s economical, too. We usually achieve around 40mpg. Above all, though, there’s enough room for the five of us, including our 18-year old daughter.”

The three kids (Jade, Lauren and Ryan) and their mum Stephanie are equally enthusiastic. “If we replaced the Nissan, we’d certainly buy the same again: a 1.8-litre hatchback has enough power and space for us,” explained Stephanie.

“We do a lot of camping, and get everything we need in the boot and a roof box. The Primera is definitely well suited to this – and much more reliable – than the Peugeot 406 we ran before.”

Indeed, nothing has gone wrong with the Branfields’ Nissan – even though it’s often crammed to the rafters with the family of five and all their gear.

RIVAL:

Owners love their Octavias – it topped our Driver Power satisfaction survey in 2008 and 2007, and would make a great replacement for the Branfields’ Nissan Primera.

It’s reliable, practical and roomy, with many engine and trim options. Prices start at £3,500 for an 04-reg 1.6 FSI Classic hatch – and are set to drop as a revised car has just arrived. There are barely any issues to look out for, either, as it’s utterly dependable.