which car?

strandsman

I want to change to a 2008 (road tax advantage) car, I am thinking about a volvo s40, ford focus, toyota avensis all diesels, I drive about 18000 miles a years on various roads, Which would be the more reliable and in a few years time trade in value?

shrapnel222

personally, i'd take the volvo out of the equation. resale value would be better with the avensis, and the focus is a nicer drive.

no1beemerfan

I'd go with a 1.6 diesel focus. One of the best cars for the everyday man.

colm_mcm

If you'r going Avensis new model then aim for a strata model as the seats are much better.

I'd probably go with the s40 in a 2.0d, but the avensis would have to be considered for size and servicing.

Focus doesn't really do it for me, few lads I know have zetec tdci models and they're a bit dull. Decent drive but there's something about them that feels cheap. Brother has one and loves it though.


Whats your budget?

strandsman

my budget would be about 14K straight, Am thinkin of looking in UK for higher spec car and more value, Am leaning to volvo for reliability and comfort,

Possedion

alot of volvo's in that range come with low profile tires. which are a pain on bad roads. (talking from experience), Avensis probably more roomier.

R.O.R

strandsman wrote: »

my budget would be about 14K straight, Am thinkin of looking in UK for higher spec car and more value, Am leaning to volvo for reliability and comfort,

You'll probably find the UK spec on the Volvo is lower. SE in Ireland was full leather up to this year, SE in the UK is part leather - you had to go SE LUX (as you do here now) to get full leather.

bazz26

You will be looking at the old model Avensis on a budget of €14k. You will also probably be looking at a high mileage 08 S40 diesel on that money.

I'd take a look at the Ford Mondeo TDCi, a little above average mileage on this one for 08 but still alot of car for the money and only €302 to tax:
http://www.driving.ie/usedcars/index.cfm?fuseaction=car&carID=201103200905487

dr.fuzzenstein

If you're looking toward reliability, be aware that the cars in the lowest tax bracket will most like have DPF and unless you're driving motorway most of the time the hassle and extra cost of them will not be worth it.