What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Buying a new car - what would you recommend?

I currently own an 07 Volvo S40 2L Diesel. It has done 37000 and I am averaging only 9000 miles pa, which I know is too low for a diesel car.

Next service will be 50,000 miles and it will start getting expensive. I would like to buy another car with similar performance/level of fittings, but petrol.

I will have about £12000 to spent in total. What would you recommend? I would prefer a hatchback, low emission if possible,

Asked on 7 December 2011 by cabwoman

Answered by Honest John
2nd hand, if you can find one, a Citroen DS3 1.6THP150 Sport. 45mpg, chain cam and easily as quick as the Volvo.
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
    Select a few terms below
Similar questions
My Wife is viewing a DS3 Orla Keily soon. These cars all seem to have 17-inch low profile wheels. Are these the tyres/wheels for this car? Or was the DS3 designed with a smaller type? Are you aware of...
I am looking to replace my 2003 SEAT Leon Cupra, budget of around £8-9k I would like similar performance and similar practicality. Mpg isnt my primary concern, but something really thirsty like the 350Z...
Can you please short list 3 to 5 cars that would in your opinion fit the following - new or used, 1.6 Ltr engine or less, easy to live with but interesting to drive, economical and reliable
Related models
Comfortable, safe and enjoyable. Good looks, backed up by a decent drive.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer