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

To ‘B’ or not to ‘B’?

I have a Mercedes B-180 CDI automatic, which I bought new in January 2009. It is my third Mercedes and was chosen over a saloon because of its compactness and flexibility that were convenient when transporting grandchildren and their gear. This requirement arises less frequently now and consequently I could manage with a smaller car. My wife has a Honda Jazz. I would like something a little more exciting to drive with automatic transmission. I have a budget of £25,000 including whatever value a 21,000-mile B-Class might have when I seek to change vehicles in the spring. Any guidance you may care to offer would be appreciated.

Asked on 9 October 2011 by MP, via email

Answered by Honest John
Ford C-Max 2.0TDCI 163 Powershift. Astonishingly good to drive. Or the new B Class, which is supposed to be a much better drive than the original.
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
    Select a few terms below
Similar questions
We have a Ukrainian guest who would like to buy an automatic car for around £5000. We are worried about all the extra costs so a good start would be something likely to be reliable. Where to start?
Which five-year-old SUV has the most reliable automatic gearbox?
Please help me choose between a Honda Jazz i-Shift and a Honda Jazz CVT. Which is more reliable? I can spend £3000 and I want the most reliable car. It doesn't matter if it is the first generation or second.
Related models
Raised driving position, lots of interior room, decent diesel engines, good ride quality on smaller wheels.
 

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