Daewoo Nubira Estate (1997 - 2002) : ESTATE OF THE NATION
Friday October 20
Models Covered: 5DR ESTATE: First generation 97 to 02 [1.6SE and 2.0 CDX]
BY ANDY ENRIGHT
What do you want from an estate car? If, as many increasingly younger buyers do, want a stylish, sleek and maybe not-so-practical sportwagon then the Daewoo Nubira estate probably wont appeal. If, on the other hand, youre after a car thats tough, inexpensive and will haul plenty of gear without complaint, the Daewoo makes an interesting alternative to more dilapidated fare. You should be able to pick something up with an acceptably modern number plate for less than you might expect. The impressive three years free servicing offer on new models is invalidated unless bought through a Daewoo retail centre, unlike the AA cover and warranty for the same period.
If youre after convenient, hassle-free motoring, the Nubira estate makes a sound choice. Its reasonably well specified in standard trim, with the base Nubira, the SE, being fitted with air conditioning, twin airbags, immobiliser and alarm, four speaker RDS radio/cassette, metallic paint and body colour bumpers. The 2.0 CDX model can most easily be identified by its electrically adjustable/heated body coloured door mirrors, and is also fitted with rear electric windows, six speaker stereo system and front fog lamps.
Space in the rear is very good with a long and flat loading bay thats clear of too much intrusion. Whilst even the most ardent Daewoo supporter wouldnt argue that these are the most stylish or best handling choices in the sector, the Nubira offers reliable transport backed up by a cast iron warranty and an after sales service of recognised excellence. Esteemed partners such as ItalDesign and Ricardo were drafted in to work on the car, and those expecting economy basic wheels may well be in for a pleasant surprise. Three year old cars which are just out of warranty should represent an interesting bargaining opportunity but bear in mind that a significant part of the value proposition may have just expired.
As you may well expect, Nubira estate prices start low. You can expect to pick up a 1997 R registered 1.6-litre SE for around £1,050 with about 70,000 miles showing on the odometer. If youd prefer one of the 1999 facelifted models, youll need around £1,300 for a 99T plated example.
Insurance for the Nubira estate is a reasonable Group 7 for the 1.6-litre SE and Group 11 for the 2.0-litre CDX.
Daewoo have developed a very good reputation for reliability and the solid no-nonsense Nubira is no exception. Check the load bay for signs of damage caused by poorly stowed loads and also run the rule over the minor switchgear because theyre not the sturdiest. In order to get the best from the warranty package check to ensure that servicing has been carried out at the specified intervals. Due to its generally mature customer base, a Nubira will probably have led an easier life than many more dynamically acclaimed rivals.
(approx based on a Nubira Estate 1.6 SE ) Although Daewoo have traditionally marketed themselves at the budget end of the price lists and parts are similarly reasonably priced especially following the GM takeover. A clutch assembly will be around £75 and cambelt should be close to £30. Brake pads are around £17 a front set and £24 for the rear shoes.
Set aside £65 for an exhaust centre section, whilst a replacement headlamp assemblet will see around £150 disappearing from the current account.
Whilst not competing on the same plane (as regards handling) as the Mondeo, Primera or 406 estate models, the Nubiras comfort-oriented perspective provides a cosseting ride. The design aspiration for the car was for a competitive mainstream product, and whilst the Nubira wont cut a dash in the car park or make its driver seek out a favourite set of bends, it nonetheless makes a fair fist of the basic requirements. If the budget will allow, go for the 2.0 injection models, as the 1.
6 is a touch thrashy when worked hard.
If you need an estate car thats going to have to earn its corn, the Daewoo Nubira makes a sound bet. Its not going to score any kudos points in a golf club car park but it will free up funds for your annual membership. If practicalitys your priority, heres a perfect pick.
Re: Yahoo Buyer Protection Program (Dalon B) 
