Replacing my old ST-2

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Sat 25 Apr 2020 13:13
Replacing my old ST-2 - ArcticBlue

Hi, so I was going to replace my old 09 ST-2 this summer but with current events it might be next year now, however I have been looking at various cars and have narrowed it down to.

Audi A4-quattro 2.0l or possibly the V6 Diesel

Jag XE 2.0 AWD

BMW 3 series X Drive 330i or the equivalent Diesel

Ideally the car will have equal to or better fuel economy than the ST and be able to carry 2 adults and a child in a car seat in the back for occasional short trips.

I am not interested in 0-60 times but I do want something that has good in gear acceleration.

I have been looking at 3 to 4 years old, I have about 17k plus my old car to trade in.

any thoughts or other suggestions ?

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Sat 25 Apr 2020 15:55
Replacing my old ST-2 - SLO76
The BMW will hold its money better and even the 320i is a powerful enough machine with 0-60 in just over 7secs yet it’ll do well over 40mpg. But I must admit to preferring the Jag despite quality worries and heavier depreciation.

In past experience every Jag I’ve driven just flows beautifully down the road while BMW’s just seem overly firm especially if fitted with the M spec kit. I’d favour the bigger XF 2.0 petrol turbo as the looks just work better in the larger car in my opinion and it’s barely slower or worse on fuel.

All down to what’s available but all things equal I’d have an approved used Jag XF 2.0t with an extended warranty, even the sporty versions ride properly. Best thing to do is to test drive them.

On the subject of your current car, don’t let the dealer steal it. It’s not something a main dealer will want but if it’s in good order with full history and is standard then these are in big demand. They’re in that stage all fast Ford’s reach of going up in value so work out it’s value and sell privately unless the dealer is very generous.
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Sat 25 Apr 2020 16:11
Replacing my old ST-2 - daveyjp

Compared to an ST the rear seat room in the BMW and Jag is woeful. In my experience children don't get shorter as they get older!

Consider a 3 series GT. You may get more for your money, including rear legeroom!

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Sat 2 May 2020 22:29
Replacing my old ST-2 - ArcticBlue

OK, thanks, I've been looking at the XF over the XE over the last few days, must admit to liking the jag the most, then probably the A4 over the BMW.

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Sat 2 May 2020 23:43
Replacing my old ST-2 - Avant

There aren't many of us on this forum who would recommend a 3-4-year-old diesel, unless you do a very high annual mileage. They can go very expensively wrong as they get older -although to be fair any of the cars on your shortlist will cost a lot to repair.

The cost of repairs as a rule is in proportion to the original new cost of the car rather than what you might pay for it secondhand.

Of your list, the six-cylinder BMWs seem to be more reiable over high mileages than the fours, and they also have excellent in-gear acceleration. So if only a prestige make will do for you that may be what to look for.

Have you definitely ruled out a Lexus or a Volvo?

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Sun 3 May 2020 18:22
Replacing my old ST-2 - ArcticBlue

looking at pictures online I was not to impressed with the interior of the Lexus or Volvo's I looked at if I am honest.

I am more than happy to look again if you can recommend any, same for the alfa romeo giulia, love the look of the outside but not so keen on the interior.

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