We are looking for a new car, preferably a forecourt model or demonstrator with less than 5000 miles on the clock so we can avoid instant depreciation. We currently drive a 2003 Clio Billabong and have another car "for fun". The Clio offers everything we need - diesel, great fuel economy, good acceleration and a comfortable ride. It's also the right size for narrow lanes and our garage. Until recently it's been reliable, but with 100,000 miles on the clock it's time for a replacement.

Like most drivers we value low maintenance costs, reliability and good fuel consumption. We need four seats, but only occasionally have passengers so they don't need to be made too comfortable. We've looked at the new Clio, but it seems much larger than our model; the BMW 1 series, but we have concerns about service and maintenance costs; the Ford Fiesta Zetec; and the Audi A1, plus (it seems) every other car available within our price range of £10,000 to £17,500. Ideally, we'd like to keep the new car for at least 10 years. Help, please.