Advice for a 40-yo driver

midnightblue · 21-09-2023 9:25am #1

I’m a 40-yo female that recently passed the driving test for an automatic, and now looking to buy my first car to use primarily for commuting to work. I’m hoping to get some advice and tips on what type of car would be best suited for me.

I’ll be using the car 3-4 days from M-F, anywhere between 20-40kms total each day. This would mostly be on Dublin roads and very little of the M50. A few kms for the grocery run or other short trips on weekends.

My budget is max 7k.

I’m 5’3” in height.

I’m looking at the likes of the Micra, Jazz or Yaris from 2012. Would these be good options for me to consider?

Thanks so much.

Tombo2001 · 21-09-2023 9:31am

They are all decent. I've been driving Kia the past number of years and have found them very good. A Kia Ceed from around 2014 might come in at that price. (Not the SW, just the regular Kia Ceed).

Buddy Bubs · 21-09-2023 9:34am

I'd be looking at Yaris all day long. Don't like them particularly myself but they're a great car and that's all you want at the moment.

Should be a few autos around, usually Japanese imports but don't let that put you off.

midnightblue · 21-09-2023 9:47am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/121137356#Comment_121137356

Thanks for the tip on the Kia Ceed, I'll put that in the list.

midnightblue · 21-09-2023 9:48am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/121137374#Comment_121137374

I did most of my lessons on a Ford Fiesta, which I really enjoyed driving. But they're hard to find now and probably over my budget. No issues with the imports at all. Thanks for the steer!

Supergurrier · 21-09-2023 10:35am

My partner is in your exact situation with the same budget but is not tied to an auto.

I advised her to go with a fiesta/swift or similar sized car even though she is set on a mini, time will tell if she heeds me 😄

The main advice i would give is get out there and drive afew cars and don't feel obliged to buy the first one you see, find what suits yourself.

User1998 · 21-09-2023 10:49am

Anything Japanese will be reliable. Test drive a few and see which you prefer.

Just make sure they have an alarm and immobiliser installed.

midnightblue · 21-09-2023 11:07am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/121137643#Comment_121137643

I hear you! Once the blinkers are on... :D

Thanks for the tips. I'm not in a mad rush to get one so will definitely try a few before making up my mind. A Swift is also something I'm considering.

Advice for a 40-yo driver

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