Out of your choices the Swift would be most reliable, possibly most efficient too thanks to the combination of its low weight and the mild hybrid system. This will be the n/a (non turbo) 1.2, so while not that fast, it isn't hindered as much as some due to having a very low kerb weight. Your budget is enough to get you into a 2023 example.

Other reliable choices would include the Toyota Yaris, though strong residuals mean your budget would only get you into a 2019/2020 example of the previous gen car. If you did go down this route, avoid the 1.0 as it is a bit underpowered (especially if your commute involves motorway running), the 1.5 would be a great choice though. The Mazda 2 is also a very reliable option. All cars use a 1.5 petrol and even the lowest powered (75bhp) version has adequate performance. Your budget could get you into a 2023 example. Honda Jazz is another very reliable choice and probably the car to go for if you regularly carry adults in the back. But like the Yaris, it would be a bit older though, probably 2020.

Probably also worth considering the Hyundai i20 and Kia Rio. These are the same car under the skin and come with longer warranties than typical (though Toyota will extend the warranty annually up to 10 years if dealer serviced) at 5 and 7 years respectively, but make sure they have a full dealer service history. 1.0 turbo would be a good choice and probably better than the n/a 1.2. A 2022 car should be within budget, which could have as much as 5 years manufacturers warranty remaining.

Your other choices?,I've never been overly keen on the Clio but I do like the Citroen C3 because of its quirky looks and focus on comfort. Not going to be as reliable overall as the above long term, but not necessarily unreliable, at least not mechanically (maybe software/infotainment glitches?*). Youngest car your budget would allow is going to be 2023 model with the lowest powered engine (83bhp), but I'd favour going for one of the turbo versions (108bhp) which will offer more relaxed and muscular performance at main road and motorway speeds, though it will be a year or two older.

*Speaking of which, be aware that heating and ventilation is controlled via the infotainment touchscreen on the C3. Not ideal from safety point of view, but I guess you'd get used to it.

Edit: Re the Puretech engine fitted to the Citroen, early versions had trouble with disintegrating drive belts, but 2019 on cars should be fine.

Edited by badbusdriver on 28/10/2024 at 20:23

I’ve found a 1.2 dual jet, 2020, 15,000 miles within budget?

Not a lot to worry about with a swift, I'm on my second, had the 1.2 dual jet albeit the 4x4 version, never gave a moments trouble, there was a recall for a rear caliper issue, forgot the details but worth checking it's been done.

Also strangely that particular generation of swift need a oil service every 9000 miles .

If the car your looking at checks out, full service history etc then it should prove a reliable buy, there great fun to drive btw...

I'd be looking for a used Zoe EV myself. As long as I could charge at home. With a specialist EV tarriff you'd get 2.5p a mile motoring. It's perfect for your commute. Mine's 75miles a day round trip and it's super cheap.

Think you’ll struggle to get anything more reliable than the Suzuki swift . With your budget , a 1.4 booster jet would be a good option.

No such thing Doc unless your on about a swift sport? They used the 1.4T engine .

I think I have a spare shovel in my shed, if you continue down this route.

You're going to be digging a big hole for yourself.

Google 'Swift Booster Jet', then take a breath!