Performance, economy, reliability - what do I go for? | Ask Honest John

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Performance, economy, reliability - what do I go for?

Hi, looking for petrol car that combines performance with economy as I'm currently driving a Mazda 3 sport 2.2 diesel 185 that provides all of the above, but I'm now only doing short drives, hence change. I'm looking at the Seat Leon 1.4 tsi but given budget etc I can only find 2009 at 100k miles. Is this a risk with this engine? I'm used to diesel and 100k wouldn't normally bother me, but unsure of this engine. Alternative is 2L BMW 1 series. Any thoughts welcomed.

Asked on 16 August 2016 by Paul Weaver

Answered by Honest John

Big risk, timing chains are a lottery. BMW N43 2.0 petrol also had problems. Look them up in www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/ Your best bet is a 2003-2006 Honda Civic Type S 2.0 160PS. A real sleeper for around £2k.

Tags: buying

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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