Which of these cars would you recommend?
Which of these cars would you recommend?
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Discussion

SuperAli1

Original Poster:

1 posts

153 months

Monday 20th January 2014
quotequote all
Volkswagen Jetta A6 petrol – 2010
Skoda Octavia petrol – 2010
Ford Mondeo MK4 petrol – 2010
Ford Focus Estate petrol – 2010

Ok, I currently have a Ford Mondeo MK3 2.0 TDCI from 2006, bought with 55000 miles on the clock, now at 90000 miles. It’s great to drive, very comfortable, but I’m sick to death of having to spend a fortune maintaining it. The last repair cost £500 (turbo), over the last 3 & ½ years I’ve lost count of the amount of money spent repairing it, I’d guess I’ve spent around 2k at least. My experience has put me of diesel engines for life, though i’ve heard that the model I have is well known for reeking havoc on ones finances in upkeep. I’m desperate to get rid of it, but I want to be sure I do not make the same mistake again by purchasing another dud. Most important of all to me is purchasing a reliable car, or at least, one that is not known for being problematic.

Of the above cars and engines available, are any of them known for being problematic and requiring regular repairs? On the flip side, are any known for being very reliable? Which car/s from the list are the most economical in regards to reliability and costs of repair?

Ride: which of these cars offer the ‘best ride’ in terms of feel and comfort?

Price: ideally I would like to spend around 7k. The Mondeo and Octavia come are similar in price, the Jetta a little more expensive, with the Focus estate the cheapest option. Price is not the most important issue for me but if a can save 1k or 2k I will be happy. *Note, I’m an expat living in Poland and I’m referring to local prices.

Engines: 1.2 litre engines are out, I’m not interested. I’m curious about the 1.4’s but would like feedback if people recommend them? When fully loaded will a 1.4 feel sluggish or are these new modern 1.4 engines up to the job? Ideal for me would be 1.6 litre. 2.0 litre is the maximum I would go for.

Any pluses or negatives anyone can throw up on any of these motors would be appreciated. If anyone can recommend any other cars similar to those above and in the same price range I’ll check them out.

Thanks in advance
Ali