What's the best small used car to replace a 2002 Yaris?

I am looking to replace my 2002 Toyota Yaris 1.3 SR, which I have had for 10 years. I am currently doing a weekly commute between Southampton and Torquay, a route mainly of fast A-roads and dual carriageways with some sizable hills. The Yaris is giving a good 45-47mpg for the 280 mile round trip, but with its sports suspension, the ride is jarring and the seats could be more comfortable.

As I am planning to move in the next six months, I have been looking at smallish used cars with five doors that will handle the weekly trip more comfortably, but will serve as a good town car once I have moved. My budget is £5000-£5500 plus what I can get for the Yaris.

Taking into account the Yaris' mpg and power, I have been looking at the Ford Fiesta 1.4 Zetec, Mazda 2 1.5 and a newer Yaris 1.3 or 1.4D. Which of these would you recommend for my purposes and have I missed any obvious choices?

Asked on 26 February 2014 by Adrian

Answered by Honest John

The Mazda 2 1.3TS2 is better than the 1.5 Sport. It's livelier and slightly longer geared, making it less noisy on the motorway. That would be my personal choice, though anything on your list would be okay.

Tags: buying a used car small cars

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