I want to replace my aging Ford Ka with something reliable, but a bit more robust - what do you suggest?

I'm looking to change my car in 6-12 months time. I drive a Ford Ka, which I have had since new and it will be six years old this year. I currently drive along a lot of A and B rural roads, so I'm looking...

Should the automatic gearbox in the Ford EcoSport be avoided?

The original Ford EcoSport automatic had a problematic dry clutch transmission which was the subject of several successful lawsuits in America. This clutch was later replaced by a torque converter but...