Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Buying a new car that's economical and reliable - what would you recommend
What do you think of Elon Musk? Have your say | No thanks

Buying a new car that's economical and reliable - what would you recommend

We are a couple in our 60s looking to trade in our two cars for something economical and reliable. Our budget would be the part exchange of a 2011 Fiat 500 and a 2008 Volvo C30, plus £6000. What do you recommend?

Asked on 17 August 2013 by Nickaj

Answered by Honest John
Cheapest is a Dacia Sandero 90TCe Ambients at £7,395, if you can get one. You might consider selling the Volvo and continuing in the 500 for a while because they have surprisingly good seats and cope well with long runs. Otherwise you could consider a Renault Captur or Peugeot 2008 or FIAT 500L.

Exclusive to Honest John users: 12% off ALA GAP Insurance

Reader Offer: 12% off ALA GAP Insurance
Similar questions
Given the long delays for new cars, what is the situation with part-exchange and trade-in values? If I buy a car now and agree on a value with the dealer on my car for the part exchange, can the dealer...
A Lexus dealer has refused to accept my debit or credit card in payment for one of their used cars, a £26,000 balance after part exchange. This was confirmed by Lexus UK when enquiring; you cannot used...
My sister in law recently lost her husband and now possess two cars. Her own is a 2009 Ford Fiesta Style petrol with 38,000 miles. Her late husband had a 2012 Focus Zetec with 30,000 miles. Both garaged...
Related models
Efficient and punchy turbocharged engines, bold and upmarket styling, classy interior especially the higher trim levels.
Unique looks and some fun cabin flourishes. Tall and spacious. Cheap to run with the right engine.
Unbelievably cheap for this size of car, generous interior space and a big boot, reasonably comfortable to drive.
Compact dimensions but with SUV driving position. Interior and engine power improved from 2019 facelift.