Faults:

Bought with exhaust air flap broken.

General Comments:

I bought the car at a low price because the mileage was high and the service fault light was on. I used to work in the motor trade and the car drove so well that I didn't think it would be expensive to repair. It was €6000 for a 4 year old diesel estate, so a very good price for Ireland.

I read the OBD and it pointed to the exhaust air flap, which is a motorized throttle in the exhaust behind the cat, which partially closes off the exhaust to help the cat warm up. I found a low mileage second hand exhaust section, and once that was fitted (cost of €170 in total) there have been no more mechanical faults in 2½ years.

I replaced both number plate lamps as the internals had corroded, and about 6 months ago replaced the front shock absorbers as one had started to rattle over rough roads. Other than that, it has just needed servicing, consumables and tyres. Also the A/C needed re-gassing when I bought it. It was done 2 years ago and is still working properly.

It's quite a basic trim level,so rather plain inside, but the seats are comfortable, and it's still quite well equipped, with 4 electric windows, parking sensors, Bluetooth, alloy wheels, and the above mentioned A/C. It's quite roomy in the front and back. The driving position can be adjusted to suit almost anyone. The estate has 6cm of extra wheelbase compared with the hatchback. The boot is large.

Performance is adequate, the car cruises easily at 150-160 and noise levels are low. I took it to Austria in 2018 with no problems.

Economy is good, with consumption figures of 4.8 - 5.3 l/100km in mixed use. On a long cruise it's possible to only use 4.5. The range is good, with a tank full lasting for 1000km-1100km, depending on whether it's summer or winter.

The ride is comfortable, just not up to Citroen hydro-pneumatic standards, and the car steers, handles, and grips well.

I had doubts originally about buying a Renault, because of the reputation some older Renaults had, but I asked around and was told that these are bulletproof. Nothing is really perfect, but the car has been great so far over 65k km. Also, it's more stylish than most other estates in its class.