1.4l saloon car best buy?

Almera is 1.5.

For value and decent reliability I'd be inclined to go for an Almera, they are a far bit cheaper than a Corolla of the same year but the Corolla might just edge it on reliability.

Of that trio the Nissan would be the least reliable, there are problems with the timing chain and/or the sensors with the 1.5 engine, it's also a far worse car in every other conceivable measure bar performance, a 1.4 Focus or Mazda 3 is dangerously underpowered.

Corollas are without a doubt a reliable car, but I wouldn't say they are any better than a Focus or a Mazda, they can suffer from gearbox problems and the VVTi engines can be prone to burning oil, especially the older ones. Most of those that suffered from it did get some of the engine repaired early on in their lives, so it shouldn't be a problem, but it is something to be aware of all the same.

I'd say if reliability is the deciding factor then go for the Mazda, it's also a fine car although I would be trying to find a 1.6 petrol. I prefer the Focus myself, but the Mazda is very good as well, it is after all based on the Focus:).

The saloon is not available with a 1.4 petrol anyway.

wesf wrote: »

same tax, same space, but way more mileage for your money, yeh i can see how thats unsuitable...

Modern diesels don't like short runs. Hence a petrol is much better for the job, and more reliable.
The Mazda 3 saloon only came in 1.6, the 1.4 was Hatch only, but I'd be going for the Mazda. The best car out of the list by a good margin, and the most reliable.

IMO there would be negligible difference in MPG between a 1.4 & 1.6. Everyone in Ireland loves smaller engines and there is a myth they are more economical but in a heavish car like those mentioned you have to thrash a 1.4 to get it to move. The throttle is open, petrol burning and nothing is happening. A 1.6, even though a bigger engine, doesn't need to be driven as hard. Even if you're a careful driver.

If you're not putting up big mileage I wouldn't be too hung up on uel costs anyway.

A 1.6 Mazda 3 saloon would be a great all-round car for the use you describe:

http://www.driving.ie/usedcars/index.cfm?fuseaction=car&carID=201143205180492

lasalle wrote: »

thanks for the replies,

There are hyundai i30s 2008s for a few dollars more, they do seem like like great value as the equivalent age of similar type cars in other makes are considerably more expensive, although perhaps they arent as tried and tested.

I think that's a great choice but I thought you wanted a saloon? Is it the estate?

The Kia C'eed is the same car with a good choice of estates available. Friend of mine has one coming up on 4 yrs/100k miles and zero problems. In terms of reliability they're just as tried and tested as anything Japanese or European - only the Koreans have the confidence to offer a 7-year warranty. They're cheaper because not quite there yet in terms of brand recognition (changing fast) but anyhing Hyundai or Kia launched from the late noughties is class competitive.