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

Is the Mazda 5 a suitable replacement for our Ford C-Max?

We're planning to replace our Ford C-Max, a 3-year-old 2-litre diesel, in the near future. It has great performance and economy and a good seating position, but we'd like less road noise and a smoother ride. Our mileage has dropped to 9000 per year since retirement so we're looking for petrol, not diesel. Can you recommend some alternatives? We wondered about a new shape C-Max (but is it any quieter?) or a Mondeo. We're looking for nearly new or used, the badge is not important but quality is. Our budget is £19,000 including the trade-in value.

Asked on 23 June 2012 by JS, Newport

Answered by Honest John
I suggest the Mazda 5 1.6TS2 on Toyo J48 205/55 R16 tyres. It's absolutely brilliant with a far better ride and handling than the old C-Max, and it's more economical and just as easy to get in and out of: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/mazda/mazda-5-16d// and www.honestjohn.co.uk/our-cars/mazda-5-16d-ts2/tyre...r

Over 11,000 miles at an average of 48mpg I did not have a hint of trouble with the DPF, but I did do the miles in big chunks.
Similar questions
We would like to buy either a Ford Focus hatchback or estate or a 2008 Ford C-Max from British Car Auctions, where we have purchased several cars in the past. The car will serve as an all purpose workhorse...
We have a second home in Spain and are considering buying a Spanish car. Secondhand prices are remarkably high. We like the van-based vehicles such as the Kangoo, and are considering a Dacia Dokker with...
Its time for me to invest. Despite its breakdown in France last year, I'm going to keep my Skoda Superb as the family car and I want to get something similar for work and with extra seats for occasional...
Related models
Best entry and egress of any car anywhere. Excellent front seat comfort.
Seven seats. Sliding side doors. Compliant suspension is superb on poor road surfaces.
 

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