WHEN it comes to buying second-hand, it's a good idea to check out the retained value of cars after three years.

That's how to find out which one is going to be cheapest, to maximise your value.

Because of its popularity new, the Ford C-Max is a great bargain second time around and they are also very accomplished and good fun to drive.

There are plenty of 1.6 petrol models about at the moment and good discounts new mean that they come fairly cheap.

There is decent acceleration even in 1.6 form and better still in the 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesel turbo versions, which are of course, more economical.

Diesels are more sought after and therefore more expensive and, even at these prices, the gain in mpg takes a long time to get back compared to buying a petrol.

As well as the 1.6, there are 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrols and every model in the range rides very comfortably. They also have brilliant road-holding with safe and sure handling.

The C-Max has airbags on all sides, air conditioning, electronic stability control, remote double locking and an alarm.

The driving position is very good, the seats comfortable and build quality is excellent.

The trade rates them highly for reliability - but only with full service history - so make sure you get it.

: Renault Scenic