THE one thing you can't say about Nissan motors any more is that they are bland and uninteresting.
The Micra has cute, eye-catching looks, and even has its own language, according to Nissan.
And the company's latest offering at the top end of the scale is the stunning 350Z Coupe with drop-dead gorgeous looks, which was recently voted Top Gear car of the year.
In the middle of the pack is the big-selling Primera which has a unique, if unusual, style in this big sector of the market.
It's popular with the large fleets and sells steadily to private buyers.
The Primera has been with us for more than 10 years and is now in its third generation.The latest model was launched two years ago with a radical look which makes it stand out from the crowd.
It certainly is a head-turner, but looks are just part of the Primera's appeal.
As a package it offers buyers first-class build quality, a roomy interior and load space which suits reps and families alike. Leg, head and shoulder room are excellent.
The design skills have extended to an instrument panel in the centre of the dashboard in which the three dials are angled obligingly towards the driver.
Underneath is a seven-inch colour screen which not only provides satnav, audio, air con and diagnostic information, but also provides the view to the back for one of the Primera's most innovative safety features - the rear parking camera.
This isn't just a gimmick. It could be very useful for those of you who are not a dab hand at reversing.
But don't totally rely on it. You should still take the usual precautions.
The birdseye view sat nav in the Primera is one of my favourites. You can see every kink and twist on the route ahead. But don't get too fascinated. It could be a distraction.
The SVE spec model I drove has heaps of kit, most of it useful. It includes hands-free phone kit, electronic climate control and rain sensing wipers, auto dim rear view mirror, electric windows all round, powered sunroof, electric door mirrors, six-speaker CD and radio system with steering wheel controls and intelligent cruise control.
For a pretty big motor it handles very well. The ride is comfortable, with most rough road surfaces easily taken care of.
The Primera is fitted out with electronic stability programme (ESP) and ABS braking with Nissan braking assist (NBA) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD).
The powerful turbodiesel engine is a gem and is fitted to a close six-speed manual gear change. You can expect around 45 mpg.
FAST FACTS
Nissan Primera 2.2dCi SVE
Price: £18,000
Mechanical: 138bhp, 2184cc 4 cyl turbo diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-spd manual transmission.
Max speed: 126mph
0-62mph: 10.2secs
Combined mpg: 46.3mpg
Insurance group: 9E
CO2 emissions: 164g/km
BiK rating: 19%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 6yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint