New car advise :)

Frost · 28 Sep 2009 at 23:16

Hi there.

I've got the urge to get myself a new car, at the moment I drive a skoda fabia 2, ive been given the option to end my finance early which gives me a good excuse to change

I will be able to afford around 16k for a used car ( using finance ), looking for a hatchback but with a nice engine.

I test drove the new seat leon fr tdi on friday, absolutetly loved the ride, it was more comfortable than id been led to believe and the engine performance was electric! while providing a very nice MPG, it even sounded quite nice ( is that possible for a diesel? )

The only thing that's putting me off is I understand the car just had a face lift june this year including a brand new engine, so im not sure if the pre 09 reg models TDI or TSI is as impressive, or as quiet or comfortable?

My other option so far was a mini cooper S.
I love the qirky interior with the tight go-karty handling and the very quick engine, but it does seem somewhat impractical what with the almost useless back seats.

I have found a couple of 57 plate cars ( i understand id be looking for a R56 engined model ) for around 16k, with sub 10k miles on the clock and about 5k worth of extra's on top, so it sounds like good value for money on that sense.

Any suggestions would be appreciated

Cheers!
Anthony

Frost · 29 Sep 2009 at 07:22

Yeah i realise 16k is a lot for a hatchback, Im not really after a big car though as it will just be used on weekends as I dont commute to work via car.

I am open to suggestions though on a different type of car

just as an example the mini I have my eyes on at the moment has this equipment on it:

Mileage: 6,500
57 plate

Interior:
Lea Lounge Carbon Blac

17" Flame Spoke Alloys
Auto-Dim Interior Mirror
Automatic Air Conditioning
Black Bonnet Stripes
CHILI Pack
Chrome-Line Exterior
Chrome-Line Interior
Colour Line Cream White
Comfort Access
Front Centre Arm Rest
Front Seat Heating
Full Bluetooth with USB.
Interior Trim English Oak
Leather interior
Metallic paint
Multifunction for S/Wheel
Navigation System
Rain Sensor & Lights On

Seems to be quite a lot of extra's for the money.

Anthony.

Frost · 29 Sep 2009 at 07:55

Nope I dont need a Diesel, Id be up for petrol as well ( hence mini choice ) but id be looking for something that doesnt burn my wallet as a drive

Frost · 29 Sep 2009 at 08:45

Thanks I had considered a mk5 golf, although not thought about an A3, I like the look of the BMW I hadn't even thought about them as a choice, but that price seems reasonable, are they ok for fuel usage despite the engine sizes?

Frost · 29 Sep 2009 at 10:15

Yes I love cars

I guess fuel consumption isnt too important, I just feel I should try be somewhat sensible if possible, i do around 8k miles a year I know isnt a lot, I dont have to spend 16k thats just my limit im open to suggestions on lower priced options of course

Frost · 29 Sep 2009 at 10:58

Fair point thats a good site thanks Jamie

Frost · 29 Sep 2009 at 12:12

It would need to be able to fit 4 people in really, the s2000 is a lovely looking car though and Id love to own one.

ill try be more clear as to what im after.

car cabaple of seating 4-5 people
Not too big hence a interest in hatchback
Nice engine petrol or diesel
sporty feel
good for short journeys but also long journeys ( occosionally will travel up to family up by scarorough from london )
Would need to last me a few years ( 5+ )
Low appreciation would be a bonus

Max of 16k on finance but lower price certainly a good thing.

Maybe im being too fussy?