Skoda Octavia
Instead of Largus for 1.4 million rubles, you can take care of a five-six-year-old (third generation with the A7 index) Octavia with a station wagon. Incidentally, all station wagons from the Czech Republic were delivered to us.
The base 1.6 engine (110 hp) is reliable and solved the problems of the previous CFNA unit. It is mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. True, such cars often served as taxis. To avoid risks, it is better to look for a car with a turbo engine.
The 1.4 TSI engine of the EA211 series, unlike the supercharged engines of the previous generation, is not known for its increased oil consumption. In the timing drive, a more reliable belt works instead of a fast-wearing chain. Sometimes, after 100 thousand kilometers, the turbine fails, but there is no need to rush to replace it – it is enough to develop and lubricate the drive rods.
There are cars with 1.8 turbo engines with a power of 180 horsepower. (series EA888). There are no global timing chain drive problems as with previous machines as the elements of the tensioning system have been modernised. Attention should be paid to the pump of the cooling system. Due to the deformation of the body, it can leak after 100-120 thousand km.
The interior can withstand time and miles. In addition, Skoda has excellent ergonomics and high-quality materials. Especially against the background of Largus.
The paintwork of the Skoda is quite strong. It is necessary to check the condition of the optics and windshield – they are quickly overwritten.
Kia Sorento
Of the crossovers, the second-generation Kia Sorento (XM) would be the best choice. For 1.4 million you can find an SUV from 2013-2014.
Gasoline naturally aspirated engine 2.4 with 175 hp. works without problems 300 thousand km or more. He has practically no weaknesses, except for the need to adjust the valve clearances.
They sell a lot of Sorento with a 2.2 turbo diesel with a power of 197 hp. Its resource is even greater than that of a gasoline unit. Of course, depending on refueling with high-quality fuel: piezo injectors are very delicate and their replacement is not cheap. And you should regularly check the condition of the crankshaft pulley.
Manual and automatic (both units have 6 speeds) are also reliable. Of the rare problems of hydromechanics one can remember leaking oil seals. In the four-wheel drive system, the connection of the axles of the box and the angular gearbox often suffers – with frequent and serious trips on the road, it cuts the splines. As a rule, this happens with diesel cars.
The interior materials are not very resistant – scratches on the plastic and “crickets” in the cabin appear already at low runs.
Kia has a thin paint and chips appear quickly. It is better to stretch the front part in a protective film.
Nissan X-Trail
The third-generation Nissan X-Trail from the first production years (2014-2015) costs just like the new Largus. Usually there are cars with a 2.0 petrol engine and front-wheel drive. The engine is reliable, but sensitive to fuel quality. And regularly (every 50-60 thousand km) the fuel system and gas must be flushed. With a run of 120-140 thousand km, most likely, you will need to replace the timing chain.
If you get a car with a manual transmission, there will be no problems. This device usually lasts longer than the motor. But most crossovers are with the Jatco JF016e CVT. It is not as reliable as a manual transmission. However, with careful handling and regular oil changes up to 200 thousand kilometers, repairs are not necessary. Provided you top up branded oil.
The interior is well put together, but the plastics and seat covers are not very resistant to high mileage.
Nissan has a common problem for Japanese cars – a weak paint, which makes the car lose its presentation quickly. The headlights also wear out quickly.
Citroen Berlingo/Peugeot Partner
Under the “heels” of the passengers, it is best to find a car from a pair of Citroen Berlingo / Peugeot Partner. For the price of a new Largus, it will be a five-year-old with a mileage of about 100 thousand kilometers.
Sometimes there are options with a diesel engine, which require regular removal and flushing of the oil pan. Otherwise, the deposits formed there can get into the lubrication system and cause problems.
Especially cars with a 1.6-liter petrol engine of the EP6 series. The engine has a mediocre reputation, but it was upgraded after 2013 and the problems of previous engines have been fixed. Nevertheless, it is worth checking the condition of the timing chain. And it is better to replace it, because the resource is about 100-120 thousand km.
The manual gearbox is reliable.
The interior is all hard plastic, but it looks interesting. And it’s more comfortable than in the new Largus.
A pair of French “heels” are still being produced and there have been no global changes in appearance.
What to take?
There are many good options on the secondary market. And in totally different classes.
If you need the most spacious car and are not afraid of the commercial essence, the Peugeot Partner and Citroën Berlingo “heels” are the best choice. They will be the most recent and therefore it will be easier to find a car in good condition.
- Car set under the Za Rulem brand – the most popular sets for every taste, and now you can put together a set according to your wishes.
- “Behind the wheel” can also be read in Telegram.
The main advantage of Largus is its enviable spaciousness. But on the secondary market you will find machines that are just as functional and practical. And at the same time more prestigious and for a comparable price.
Instead of the new Largus: cool alternatives for 1.5 million rubles
Source: Z R