Need advice.. new or 2nd hand? What make to go for

2026now · 11-01-2026 01:15PM #1

hi.. looking for a bit of advice. We need to get a new car.. small family so no need for massive car, but usual kids activities, dog etc. Dont do huge mileage, mostly driving around Dublin with occasional trips down the country.

We were thinking about buying new, as the price of second hand cars seems to be out of touch with reality at the moment. Looked at the Toyota Corolla Cross, Dacia duster, and Citroen.. both the C3 and the C5. Live in an apartment , so electric is not an option.

I like the C5, its a comfortable car, nice enough to drive and seems to have a decent spec. Its a little outside our price target though. Was thinking around the 40 k, with 10k down and borrow the rest. Would I be mad to buy a Citroen? should I go for a second hand car, and if so, what could I go for that would represent good value. Id like something that has a decent spec and is comfortable

decor58 · 19-01-2026 10:03PM

We picked up our C3 hybrid last week, early days yet but very happy so far, been driving Fiestas for ever but Ford have stopped production. The petrol and electric C3 are much the same price, the hybrid is a bit dearer but no recharging issues or range anxiety. Hybrid works seamlessly, mainly electric in urban drive or low speed, the automatic gearbox is very smooth. Good luck with your search.

monseiur · 19-01-2026 10:10PM

Check out used imports from Japan - Toyotas, Hondas, VW's etc. all low mileage and in very good condition. The only downside is almost all are automatic.