I had naturally researched the market for a nearly new replacement for my Nissan Note. This was a good car but after just two years the paint began to fail badly and Nissan didn't want to know. So I kept it until it was 3 years old and then began my search for a replacement.
As good as the Note was, it was a bit small for me. I'm a big bloke and I wanted something around me that didn't make me feel claustrophobic, with space to breathe and room to spare. However, the memsahib won't drive anything big so I had to compromise.
The size of the Meriva was (is) perfect.
I am a 'gadget' man too and like to surround myself with playthings, so the more on the new car the better. I am also a big fan of Sat Nav but don't like to stick things around me with wires on.
The two top spec versions of this car had most going for them, but neither had everything that I wanted.
So I told my local dealer that I wanted an SE but with Sat Nav and front and rear radar.
His first reaction was that a car of this spec would be as easy to find as Hen's Teeth.
But I was prepared to wait and eventually one appeared in the Network Q Listings.
It was too expensive for me but it showed that a car of this ilk did actually exist.
Eventually (after about 10 weeks) another appeared over the horizon and this one was within my budget.
So I went for it.
Hey and it also had full leather trim and heated seats too.
WOW!
I wasn't expecting that. A terrific bonus.
Well I have had absolutely no regrets.
She is a magnificent car.
I can get 55 - 65 mpg if I'm careful on a long run and around town she averages a little over 40 mpg.
She is spacious, nippy and reasonably quiet.
She's very comfortable too and the heated seats...?
mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
The boot is big enough to care and the lack of a spare wheel isn't as big a problem nowadays as it used to be.
The back doors? Get a life some of you professional critics!
Different? - yes.
Take a bit of getting used to? - yes.
Any Good? - No - Excellent actually.
The reviews for this car are mixed at best and I went into it's purchase carefully and with my eyes wide open.
I have never bought a rotten car - but I have got rid of a few.
However, this one fitted the bill from day one and continues to please.
I have absolutely no regrets in getting her and she is now a valued and loved member of my family.