Need some help & advice. Or should i say Spec me.

[Grumps82]

Hello chaps.

You guys know a lot more about cars than i do. I need a reliable car for myself, my good lady and my 3 year old son.

I have always preferred Japanese cars, i dunno what it is, im 27 and every car i have owned has been Japanese. Im open to all suggestions though as i dont want to have blinkers on.

So the criteria.

Up to £4000 max budget.
Must be reliable.
Engine size from 1.6 upward.
5 Door.
Must be suitable for my 22yo Partner (4 Years NCB).
Preferably Japanese or German.
Hopefully respectful MPG.

We are going to look at a 51' Honda Civic 1.6s, its immaculate, 1 Owner from new, full service history, cambelt done etc for £2900.

I just don't know whether i want something a bit bigger, i really like the look of the Mazda 6's. I have seen one for sale here

Is there anything else you would suggest ? Am i missing out on something good because i prefer Jap or German ?

Thanks for your help, it is appreciated.

 

[LiE]

Mondeo.

Something like this? http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classif...-type/diesel/page/28/sort/pricedesc&logcode=p

 

[Grumps82]

I quite like the look of that, although quite a trek from the DT1 area. My problem is that i have never liked Fords, I dunno what it is. This is where i need to take my blinkers off and pursue other alternatives.

It does seem like a nice example with good mpg and low insurance for the other half. Would you think i would be barking up the wrong tree by only searching for Jap or German cars ?

I still cant help but feel something for the Mazda 6. Although the Mondeo could be a better car.