What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks
Could you recommend something safe, reliable and economical for a long commute?
My son has changed his job and has a new appointment some 60 miles from his home. This could involve him in mainly motorway travel for some months until he gets himself sorted out.
He currently has a very nice 1989 Mercedes 190 2.6. This would clearly not be suitable for a 120-mile daily commute, even only for a few months. He has been looking at secondhand MINIs, priced up to £9500. He needs something safe, reliable and economical. Any suggestions?
He currently has a very nice 1989 Mercedes 190 2.6. This would clearly not be suitable for a 120-mile daily commute, even only for a few months. He has been looking at secondhand MINIs, priced up to £9500. He needs something safe, reliable and economical. Any suggestions?
Asked on 20 April 2021 by David Parnaby
Answered by
Andrew Brady
I'd be looking for something a bit comfier than a MINI. A soft, diesel car (maybe with an automatic gearbox) would be a good option for that kind of mileage. How about a Vauxhall Insignia? It's not a stylish choice, but it's very comfortable, cheap to run and represents excellent value for money (they're popular with fleet drivers for a reason!). A Volkswagen Golf would be a slightly more fashionable option, or a more spacious Skoda Octavia/Superb.
Our Fuel Cost Calculator shows you which will be the best choice for you.
Compare the running costs of petrol, diesel and electric cars to make the right choice for you.
Similar questions
I am going to be commuting to work by car, which is 377 miles a week. My work will pay 45p for the first 6000 miles then down to 25p. It's all motorway and one hour's drive, which car would you recommend...
My Daughter has a new job that involves a 110-mile per day commute, mostly motorway. She'd like an automatic. Economy is important as well as safety and reliability. We have a budget of up to £12,000....
I'm starting a new job and will travel 120 miles round trip each day, about half motorway and half A/B roads. I don't know if it'd be better to buy new, take out a finance deal or buy a high mileage secondhand...
Related models
.jpg?width=115&height=75&rmode=crop)
Plenty of second-hand choice, excellent cabin quality, efficient petrol and diesel engines.
.jpg?width=115&height=75&rmode=crop)
Saloon shape but actually a practical hatchback. Far superior interior quality than previous model.
.jpeg?width=115&height=75&rmode=crop)
Offers limousine levels of comfort and space, but with a very affordable price tag. Efficient engine options include plug-in hybrid models. Boot capacity is truly huge.
Represents good value for money. Big boot and generous amount of rear legroom. Diesels are very economical.
.jpg)
