• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I have children!

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

    The kids loved it, due to the high seating position. It meant they get a good view of the world outside.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Possibly, as it is very practical. However, I was extremely disappointed with the fuel consumption. As a diesel, it is apparently supposed to average 51mpg, but I managed about 40mpg. I never thrashed it or drove particularly fast, either.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I am buying an 02 plate Toyota Avensis 1.8 petrol (sadly the Picasso has been written off following an accident). I'm going for a petrol as I think that diesel is a false economy now with the 10p per litre difference at the pump.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £4,495

    When did you buy the car?

    February 2007

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes, it was priced lower than other Picasso of the same spec with higher mileage.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Combination of its size, and the amount of kit for the money.

    What was the dealer like?

    Very friendly and helpful.

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    OK. Not brilliant, but acceptable. This isn't a car to drive for the fun of it.

    What's it like to park?

    Surprisingly easy, due to the light steering.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    - Ignition switch needed replacing, as some of the wiring in it died, resulting in loss of heaters and air-con. - Airbag warning light randomly displaying for no reason. - CD player started refusing to read CD's.

    What's most practical about your car?

    The size of it inside - very good for growing children!

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Air-con was a welcome luxury in hot weather. The trip computer was also a bit of a novelty, having never had one before.