Nissan Problems

Just about every small car will match the space of the Tiida so you have two choices, go for a class leader such as the Mazda3 or return to Nissan for a value deal on the Pulsar. The Mazda gets The Tick but the Nissan is very good value.

For your main requirements, I'd avoid all four of your shortlisted models and go for a Subaru Forester or Outback. They are more car-like but will still handle the rough roads.

CVT transmissions in general have been the subject of criticism; it's not only Nissans that can be affected. CVT transmissions are not new; they've been used since the 1970s when they were fitted to DAFs. General Motors looked at them in the 1980s, but abandoned the plan to build them in France for use throughout the GM world, including Holden. The problem was the Van Dorn belt, which is the heart of the transmission. In those days they wouldn't handle high torque, so they were ok on small engines, but on larger engines, such as a six-cylinder. They've come a long way since those days and they are much better, but they can still have problems. The things to look for are slipping on take-off and shuddering. It's not something you should be overly concerned about, but it's something you should be aware of and conscious about. The use of fish oil is a good idea if you live near the sea. Even though cars today use good quality steel treated to prevent rust the extra protection of fish oil makes it worth doing.

Some owners have complained about the CVT in past models, but we haven't had any reports about the current model here at Carsguide. The issue complained about is shuddering on take-off. Fuel consumption is also a concern. The Pathfinder has a powerful 3.5-litre V6 engine and reports say it can slurp 10 L/100 km on the highway and more around town. If your daughter is concerned she should perhaps look at a four-cylinder SUV.

The new HiLux and Triton will arrive in the first half of next year. If you're planning a five-year run for your new ute it would be worth waiting to see how the pecking order changes once they're in place.

Carmakers, and it appears Nissan in particular, choose to hide behind their warranties, which exclude wear and tear items. But I believe you could argue that the extremely short clutch life that many people are experiencing with vehicles fitted with dual-mass flywheels makes them unfit for purpose under our consumer laws. Something needs to be done. Perhaps you could get other owners to join you in an approach to Nissan on the problem.

The 2.5-litre petrol engine in the CX-5 will give you the zip you want. If you need oomph for towing, go for the diesel.

If a car is built in 2013 then it's a 2013 model and that's how it will be judged at resale time. You're probably already getting a big discount because 2014 is nearly over and dealers are desperate to clear any cars from last year.

The main concern with the CVT transmission is shuddering, particularly on takeoff from a standstill. It's easily recognised if your car has it. If it isn't showing any signs of the problem I wouldn't be too concerned about it.