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

Which used diesel saloon?

I need an economical saloon for commuting and visiting a sick relative on a regular basis.

I want something that has prestige, torque, is economical and well built. My budget is £6000 tops.

I have narrowed my search down to the three main types of car - Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Jaguar X-Type. All are available on an 03/04 plate at that sort of money.

Asked on 8 January 2012 by darren

Answered by Honest John
You might as well add a Mondeo III 2.0TDCI to your list because that's what an X-Type is based on, but the Mondeo got any improvements like better gearboxes up to 18 months before the Jag did. And A4 1.9TDI is likely to be more reliable than a 2.0TDI. Check the entries What to Watch Out for for all at: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
    Select a few terms below
Similar questions
I'm currently considering two cars - a 2001 Mercedes-Benz C200 with only 52,000 miles, absolutely immaculate, one owner, Avantgarde trim, or a 2004 2.0T Saab Vector, again, one owner 62,000 miles. Both...
I am thinking of buying a Jaguar X-Type in 2012. I only drive 4000 miles a year with many short journeys. I could spend up to 10k. Prefer automatic but manual OK. Petrol or diesel? AWD or not? 20k miles...
I commute 50k per year (90% motorway) and need to replace my current car, a 2003 Mondeo TDCi Zetec S with 168k. I’m looking for diesel/reliability/mpg/re-sale, budget: approx. £10k -/+ part exchange of...
Related models
Compact Jaguar, launched as V6 only with four wheel drive. Held price well at first.