What could I replace my Mercedes-Benz C220 with?

I run a 2006 Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI blue efficiency AMG Sport Estate on a 3-year PCP that expires at the end of November. Since buying this car my driving pattern has changed due to early retirement caused by illness, and I am concerned that if I opt to buy I will have problems with the DPF in the near future. Can you recommend an alternative (preferably new) car around the same size, or slightly smaller, with a decent ride and spec to last me for at least the next 5/6 years of my retirement?

I'm not marque conscious but have loved driving Mercedes-Benz (I had an E-Class before) in terms of comfort, spec, reliability, etc. The mpg of the petrol C180 is not as good so I need to consider alternatives up to circa £30,000. A Passat or Mondeo may possibly feel too big for my wife. The Audi A3 Sportback seems under-specced and expensive and I've considered a Skoda Octavia or Hyundai i40.

Asked on 5 October 2013 by JC, Esher,

Answered by Honest John

Higher power VAG models on the MQB subframe (Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf, SEAT Leon, Skoda Octavia) have very good ride quality even on 18-inch wheels with 40 profile tyres, when they are fitted with multilink rear suspension. Audi now does an A3 saloon: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/audi/audi-a3-saloo.../. They aren’t so good with the cheaper twist-beam rear axle but, of course, Mercedes-Benz offers the A-Class and B-Class, both of which ride best on 205/55 R16 tyres.

Tags: ride comfort wheels and tyres diesels specification

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