Family Estate - Used estate for 2-3k

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Wed 16 Apr 2014 19:30
Family Estate - Used estate for 2-3k - montymole

Hi Everyone,

I'm looking for a family estate for between 2-3k, ideally something that will last me a year or two!

I only do about 8-10k miles a year, which are mainly local (school runs, shopping and work). I assume due to the annual mileage, I'd be better with a petrol (please correct me if I'm wrong).

The big question is what car?!

Having done some research, I narrowed it down the following (although I'm open to suggestions):

VW Passat

Skoda Octavia

Mazda 6

Toyota Avensis

Honda Accord (although I think my budget would be tight)?

As well as car suggestion(s), I'd be grateful if anyone could advise as to what maximum mileage on a car I should cap my search at. Taking into consideration my annual mileage, type of driving and anticipated length of ownership.

Any advise will be greatly received, in what feels like a minefield! ;-)

Thanks

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Wed 16 Apr 2014 20:02
Family Estate - Used estate for 2-3k - bazza

If it were me, at that budget Iwould pick up a petrol Avensis, Corolla or Mazda 6 estate. Reliability of those 3 likely to be top notch. provided car has a service history and is well cared for. Post around 06 Avensis ( I think) are free of earlier oil burning problems well documented on the web.

I have experience of older and newer Octavia, they are a decent car but need to choose carefully. If diesel, a well serviced 1.9 tdi might be an option. VAG petrol engines are reasonable, for that money you may find a nice 1.6 8 valve Octavia, slow but ok. As VAG stuff ages, their reliability is only average with lots of electrical issues- in my experience.

Passat - bit of a mixed bag, a lot of problems documented, would probably avoid older ones.

Basic Japanese normally aspirated petrol is your best bet, hence the choices above. Also add in Accord if you don't mind highish petrol bills.

Edited by bazza on 16/04/2014 at 20:03

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Wed 16 Apr 2014 21:37
Family Estate - Used estate for 2-3k - Peter.N.

If you want a reliable diesel the Peugeot 406 2.0. Hdi is a super car, very reliable and nice to drive.

Peter

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If you cover no more than 100 miles per day and have easy access to a charging point at home or work, then an EV is ideal for you.

Is an electric car right for me?