As reliability is high up on your list, consider the previous shape Toyota Auris 1.6 petrol manual. For your budget you'll get an excellent 2011 or 2012 example. The 1.6 petrol engine is reliable and pretty punchy with 130bhp and has the benefit of a 6 speed box.

Avoid the MMT automated manual in this model though.

Japanese petrol engined models such as the Civic, Toyota Auris, Mazda 3 and Ford Focus 1.6 which uses a Yamaha designed motor all make good options at this money. I’d avoid diesel and I’d forget hot hatches and prestige brands. A decent Mk III Focus 1.6 Zetec can be had for this money, all things equal it would be my preferred choice for its combination of reliability, driver appeal and low running costs. Don’t let anyone talk you into the 1.0 Ecoboost and I’d leave the diesels at this money.

Thanks this is more or less what I thought apart from the Focus. I didn't realise that the 1.6 was Yamaha designed. I've had 2 Mk1's, a 1.8 TDCI, despite the negative press about the engine I never got any grief and had it to about 100K. The other was a 1.6 Zetec automatic that my mum gave me, it was thirsty though, probably being an auto, but it was faultless. Whether the 1.6 from as old as this car a 2002 was designed by Yamaha I haven't a clue.

I'll definitely take a look at later Focus models though, as I did like the way the MK1's drove.

Edited by Mr.Paws on 22/09/2020 at 22:48

“ Whether the 1.6 from as old as this car a 2002 was designed by Yamaha I haven't a clue. I'll definitely take a look at later Focus models though, as I did like the way the MK1's drove.” It’s an updated version of the same engine and has a very good reputation for longevity. The Mk III is heavier and not as nimble as the Mk I but it’s much safer and better made. There’s a 1.6 Ecoboost too which uses this engine with a turbo bolted on, it’s great but rare. The normal 1.6 Zetec is a brilliant buy around this money.

I think you mean mkII rather than mkIII? Just in case the OP gets confused.