Car Buying Advice

hof1982

Hi,
Long time lurker first time poster in the thread.
I'm looking for some advice in relation to purchasing a 2008+ diesel, budget of max 12-13k. I'm currently doing 20k+ miles per year so diesel is a must.
Requirements;
1. Reliability
2. Good mpg
3. Degree of comfort - cruise control etc
4. Space for small ones in the back

I have been looking at different makes across the spectrum from Accord to A4 to 9-3 to Passat CC (now ruled out due to 2 rear seats). I would travel to the UK or North for better value if necessary.

Anyone any advice on other potential options or feedback on any of the above mentioned?

Matthewjohn

How about a Mondeo?

http://www.carzone.ie/search/Ford/Mondeo/-GHIA-2./37713797572444960/advert?channel=CARS

Or a Volvo S40? (Although space maybe an issue)

http://www.carzone.ie/search/Volvo/S40/1.6-DIES/37213817461811840/advert?channel=CARS

zooprune

In a similar scenario myself...need to change and have been looking at a lot of the models you've listed above...have previously owned a 9-3 and whilst its a comfortable bus, I wouldn't buy another one due to repeated mechanical failures(that and the fact that Saab have gone bust, so resale value would be very poor as a result.
Have recently driven an A4 and was very impressed...lots of space in the back and the S-Line model seems to have lots of extra kit.
Might be worth checking out a main dealer to see if they will source something from the UK for you if you have a specific requirement?
I know that this is something some of the main dealers will do.
Am not that keen to go down the route of buying privately as I need the peace of mind that having a main dealer warranty brings due to the fact that I do similar mileage to yourself workwise and also am looking to trade my exsiting bus.

bazz26

Will not set your heart racing but if reliability is at the top of your list then maybe:


http://www.driving.ie/used-cars/Toyota/Avensis/2.0D4D-STRATA/33913618833510800/


http://www.driving.ie/used-cars/Skoda/Superb/1.9tdi,LOW-MILEAGE,new/36313827809911800/

hof1982

Thanks for the replies.

Neither the Mondeo or the Toyota would really float my boat although I'm currently driving a focus diesel (van) and the wife has a 2 year old focus diesel car and reliability is very good with both. A friend bought an Octavia from the UK (dealer demo) in the last 6 months and has had a few issues (EGR and aircon issues) which is surprising given the reputation. I'm finding that there is not great value to be had in the A4's and I would be hard pushed to get one within budget that hasn't serious mileage. I wouldn't rule out a Volvo although space would be an issue. I am taking quite a liking to the Accord and the ES GT seems to be well equipped and reasonable value from the UK for 08/9.

bazz26

Honda Civic:


http://www.driving.ie/used-cars/Honda/Civic/2.2I-CTDI/37713814125940510/

hof1982

Thanks for the suggestion but I couldn't see myself doing 20k+ per year in a Civic - definitely need some comfort for regular motorway spins etc. Anyone any experience of the accord?

timmy4u2

For reliability, economy and comfort with good resale value do not pass the hyundai diesel.
Start at the i30 and continue upwards to the i35 or i40.
One of the most reliable cars on the road and they have received awards in UK.
They also carry a low tax rate based on Co and they are one of the few cars with small cc diesel engines that do not have problems

hof1982

Bazz, did I see somewhere in another thread that you are driving a Passat CC? If so how do you find it? How is space in the back? This would be my first choice if I could get a 3 rear seat with sufficient space in or around the budget (doubtful I suspect but possibly in the UK).

bazz26

It's fine, boot is huge as is rear legroom. Rear headroom is also deceptively good given the coupe style dipped roof. Mine is the 5 seater which was made standard on the CC from mid 2010. Being honest the middle seat is only useful for a child or young teenager as it is a bit higher than the other two at the other side. Just watch UK spec models, the base models over there are lower spec than base models here but there are more higher spec models available over there too than here. Things to watch are the usual VW pet hates, suspension components don't stand up very well and the air conditioning compressor is known to pack it in after a few years which is a common issue across all VAG cars of similar age.

Driving wise, coming from a BMW it is nowhere near as nice to drive. Typical VW really, steering is light and vague with very little feedback, not as connected to the road plus being a long car the rear tends to lift a lot sooner when you stick it tight into a corner. Not saying its a bad drive but doesn't match the rest of the package. Would I recommend one? Yes but only if you are not an enthusiastic driver.