SecondHandSense:LEGENDARY INVESTOR, Warren Buffet, is fond of telling us to be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful - a logic some are applying (with success) when buying cars. Dealers are no longer in a position to dictate unrealistic prices and the number of cars on forecourts indicates they have only one choice - sell at prices people are prepared to pay. Buyers are in a very strong position, especially those who do not have a trade-in.
One difficulty remains, however. Dealers are watching each other's prices constantly, so a price pattern may emerge that does not necessarily reflect a car's value. So how do you decide what to pay for a second-hand car?
Perhaps the best way is to value the car on a UK website. Calculate the tax you will pay (revenue.ie), then add 5 per cent. It's a crude formula, but will be in tune with what the dealer has in mind.
If you are unwise enough to consider buying a second-hand Nissan Murano, applying the Buffet principle would be a good start, because any dealer with one must be fearful.
The Murano is a 3.5 petrol-engined four-wheel-drive that offered an alternative to the BMW X5 and the Volvo XC 90. Originally designed for the US, it was introduced to Europe when buyers were enthusiastic about large four-wheel-drives. It is big, brash and has little relevance, less than four years on.
It has wicked consumption figures, an automatic gearbox and no diesel option. It is, however, nicer-looking than some competitors. It is packed with standard equipment such as leather upholstery and satellite navigation. It also offers a pleasing drive. But practical it is not. The rear is cramped, with the emphasis on comfort up front.
The Murano does not have a EuroNCAP crash test result - not uncommon with expensive cars, but reliability is not an issue with Nissan.
One dealer is offering a 2005 model with 26,000km on the clock for €37,000. Another has a 2006 model with 25,000km for €28,900. This proves some dealers are hanging on to unrealistic asking prices. Even at the lower figure, the Murano is a non-runner in today's market. As O'Casey's Juno might have said: "Dem days is over, Joxer."
STAR RATING: 2/10