Overall Rating |  |
First generation Laguna is one of the roomiest, smoothest riding cars in its class. It's good value but not as reliable or well built as some rivals, so choose carefully.
For
- Lots of family car for the money
- Spacious and comfortable
- Nice to drive
Against
- Some poor condition older cars about
- Upholstery and trim can wear badly
- Auto models can be troublesome
Road Test
Laguna does most things well. The hatchback is roomy enough for four adults or a growing family; the estate offers more load space (or two rear-facing child seats on some Family versions).
An excellent ride complements the spacious cabin, but noise from the eight-valve 1.8 and 2.0 compromises overall refinement; the later 16-valve 1.8 and 2.0 are livelier and quieter. The 1.9 dCi pulls better than the dTi but neither is particularly refined.
Handling is assured, precise, but hardly sporty (though versions badged Sport do at least look the part).
Equipment is generous; Alize and RXE are liked, with standard air conditioning and ABS.
Many Nineties Lagunas have notched up the miles, so pick a car with a full history to assure trouble-free ownership. Transmission and electrical problems are irritating and sometimes costly. And upholstery seems to get tatty faster than on a Mondeo or Avensis of similar age.
Need To Know
NCAP: 2.5
Best Models: 2.0 16v RXE
Worst Models: 1.6 RN; 2.2D models
Replacement: by current Laguna in early 2001
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling Comfort  Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav  |
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