The Laguna’s engines aren’t especially noted for their smoothness and refinement, yet although the newer 16-valve units can still sound quite vocal when opened up,theyoffertangiblebenefitsovertheirpredecessorsin thisrespect.

Thenewerthebetterasfarasdieselsgo,too. Pick the direct-injection dTi if funds will stretch to it, but don’t be too readily won over by lusty V6 power unless your skill behind the wheel, your bank balance and any pointsonyourlicencearealluptoit.TheLaguna’slistof mechanical woes doesn’t make too depressing reading, but don’t be surprised to find a few things in need of attention under the bonnet. The head gasket, water pump, camshaft drive belt (or its tensioner) and fuel injection faults all put in a fair share of appearances in our survey; remember to check these areas in particular whileyou’regivingtheenginebayageneralonce-ove