THE last Renault Laguna is a brilliant car that solved most of the problems experienced by earlier models.

Most owners love them and would happily buy another if they were still available in this country. That said, I have heard of problems with diesel particulate filters.

It was awarded five stars in crash tests and there is an estate as well as the hatch.

All have a light clutch and slick gearchange, superb brakes, decent steering and in the Renault tradition, a very good ride.

The handling is excellent, and there is huge grip. There's hardly any roll and the way it hugs the road over different surfaces makes it very safe.

The same 2.0-litre petrol can be had with 138, 167 or 202bhp and there are two diesels - a 1.5 with 108bhp and a 2.0-litre with a choice of 128, 147 or 177bhp.

Best choice is the 2.0-litre DCi turbo with 147bhp, which delivers economy and very good performance.

All these Lagunas come with four electric windows, alloys, stability control and an excellent keyless entry and starting system and even locks the car automatically when you leave with the key in your pocket. 

Dynamique trim also brings climate, audio remote, lumbar adjustment, parking sensors and sat nav.