NISSAN versus DODGE
SPLURGE (above): Nissan Qashqai dCi Acenta 2.0D, £17,995
SAVE (below): Dodge Kaliber 2.0 D SE, £14,995
LOWDOWN: Nissan’s brave step to replace its medium-sized (Almera) and family-sized (Primera) hatchbacks with the Qashqai has paid off. The Qashqai is a ‘crossover’ car which was inspired by the rugged look of 4×4s but designed to be driven on, rather than off, the road.
It’s a quality product which has been a huge hit across Europe and Sunderland has had to recruit extra staff to keep up with demand. Upmarket versions are well-equipped but cost in excess of £20,000, while cheaper versions can be had from around £16,000.
The Dodge Kaliber, meanwhile, is even cheaper than this and possesses a similarly attractive, muscular look to the Qashqai. The similarities disappear when you get inside the cars, however. The Dodge has been built to a budget and cannot match the interior quality of the Nissan. Nor is it as good to drive as the Qashqai.
SAVING: £3,000 LOOKALIKE RATING: 6/10
VERDICT: It’s very much a case of you get what you pay for here. The Nissan is more expensive because it has a far higher quality interior. It is also likely to depreciate less, so it’s worth buying the British-built product.
5 Comments
Peter what are you on about, it looks nothing like the Volvo, its more like a Toyota Corolla T Sport.
I think the only thing the 300C has in common with the Bentley is rarity. In my view the 300C (or Dodge Magnum - same car) looks nothing like a Bentley. As for holding its resale value better than a 5-Series, that probably says more about the 5-Series and the step backward from the previous model - M5 excepted.
I think the 300c has all the qualities of the bentley continental, except giving you the ability to say,ooh i spent £100,000 on my car. Wait, thats a good thing.
Looking through all the photos and details, I can honestly say if I had the money I would buy the dearer car everytime. Chrysler is not a Bentley is it and never will be. I only drive a humble Vauxhall Astra, but aspire to a Lexus, or Mercedes. All 3 are value for money reliable cars, but you pays your money you takes your choice.
It goes without saying we would probably all go for the premium vehicles, as much for prestige than anything else.
However, with the 300C Chrysler is onto a winner. Its a bold design and definitely distinctive. Looks a LOT more expensive than it is. I saw one being run as a taxi at Munich airport and all the drivers were very interested in it and looking on in envy - this is the country where every taxi is a Merc.
Great to see a manufacturer trying something new and superb value for money with great resids - a good buy if you are in the market for one of these cars.
Cheers,
Mark