£2k Commuter Car
Discussion
Currently driving a 2001 MK4 Golf 1.6 Petrol which is just about to hit 200k miles and seems to be at that age where it keeps causing me problems and every time I get in it I worry about whether I’m going to make it without breaking down.
My commute is about 75 miles each way consisting mainly of motorway miles which I do about 3-4 times a week, so with a few extra miles on top of that for other trips I probably average about 450-650 miles each week. There could be a chance that my commute might shorten after another year or so, would it be worth just trying to keep my golf running until then?
However if I were to get a new car what sort of thing would you guys suggest? My absolute top priority would be reliability and low maintenance cost, other than that I’m not really too fussy. The top end of my budget would be £2.5k, but wouldn’t really want to go above this at the moment.
My commute is about 75 miles each way consisting mainly of motorway miles which I do about 3-4 times a week, so with a few extra miles on top of that for other trips I probably average about 450-650 miles each week. There could be a chance that my commute might shorten after another year or so, would it be worth just trying to keep my golf running until then?
However if I were to get a new car what sort of thing would you guys suggest? My absolute top priority would be reliability and low maintenance cost, other than that I’m not really too fussy. The top end of my budget would be £2.5k, but wouldn’t really want to go above this at the moment.
G111MDS said:
Touch older, but how about an Audi A2 TDi? Fantastic on fuel, cheap to run, and will last forever if looked after.
Good shout if OP doesn't mind an older car.Looked on Atrader and they are pretty rare.
There's a guy in Bristol who specialises in them and he has a couple.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103059...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103059...
However aren't they meant to ride a bit harshly? Great design and cheap to run.
Agree that something Japanese is likely your best bet. However, I have (had) a similar commute and went with a Volvo V70 D5. Cost me £2100 a couple of years ago and I've done 50,000 relatively trouble free miles. Currently ticking past 150k.
Mines an auto and I've changed the fluid (very important), does around 45mpg, very comfortable and quick enough.
Mines an auto and I've changed the fluid (very important), does around 45mpg, very comfortable and quick enough.
Get a Mercedes 220/270d they're bulletproof & with a 2.5k budget you can get a good car with sensible miles on the clock.
You need to check to see if the gearbox fluid has been (every 40k) changed if not knock of £250-300 to get it done apart from that there really aren't any major issues:
CLK270 Elegance great cars perfect for your usage you'll see low to mid 40's standard & mid 40's to low 50's with a remap
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103039...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103059...
CLC220 Sport
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102128...
C220 Elegance
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103019...
Avantgarde SE
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202012116...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102149...
C220 Coupe Sport Edition
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103110...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102289...
You need to check to see if the gearbox fluid has been (every 40k) changed if not knock of £250-300 to get it done apart from that there really aren't any major issues:
CLK270 Elegance great cars perfect for your usage you'll see low to mid 40's standard & mid 40's to low 50's with a remap
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103039...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103059...
CLC220 Sport
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102128...
C220 Elegance
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103019...
Avantgarde SE
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202012116...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102149...
C220 Coupe Sport Edition
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202103110...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102289...
Thanks for all the options posted, definitely all worth considering. Having just had my car go into the garage for a coolant leak, I had to resort to get it fixed as I can’t go without a car for work. Therefore after spending a bit of money on it, I’m not in any urgent rush to find anything.
For those of you who mentioned the Audi A2, I am actually conveniently located in Bristol where that specialist is, so might be worth taking a look at them.
A Japanese option always sounds like the go to for my situation though they tend to be mostly smaller cars and although not being too fussy, I would prefer to go for something a bit bigger if possible. I’ve noticed a number of Lexus’s would be within budget, such as an IS 220d, would these be worth looking at?
For example, something like this: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102239...
@ZX10R, Those Mercedes are something I hadn’t considered before, is it strictly only the 220/270d engines that I should look at? My only worry with them is that is something were to go wrong, wouldn’t it be significantly more expensive then the likes of a Ford Focus/Mondeo?
For those of you who mentioned the Audi A2, I am actually conveniently located in Bristol where that specialist is, so might be worth taking a look at them.
A Japanese option always sounds like the go to for my situation though they tend to be mostly smaller cars and although not being too fussy, I would prefer to go for something a bit bigger if possible. I’ve noticed a number of Lexus’s would be within budget, such as an IS 220d, would these be worth looking at?
For example, something like this: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102239...
@ZX10R, Those Mercedes are something I hadn’t considered before, is it strictly only the 220/270d engines that I should look at? My only worry with them is that is something were to go wrong, wouldn’t it be significantly more expensive then the likes of a Ford Focus/Mondeo?
Edited by Timoo on Saturday 13th March 16:57
Edited by Timoo on Saturday 13th March 16:59
Mercedes? Really. tick tock, tick tock.
Volvo is a great shout - not maintenance free, but very robust.
Anything modernish and Ford is a good contender. 2.0 tdci Mondeo, or a 1.8tdci Focus?
2k would get you a very tidy Laguna 3 2.0 diesel. Robust as mountains, and run really well. All ours have been as reliable as dawn, and the oldest is just edging up to 220k. The 1.5 106 horse Megane 3 is a very decent and under rated car, and as cheap as chips, well within budget for a 2010 or so model.
I've been a bit disappointed in an Auris, not as good as some of the other Toyota stuff, but it's not dumped anyone on the side of the road yet.
I certainly wouldn't go for a A2. Too rare, too expensive, too old, too fickle for a run of the mill commute. Buy something that anyone with a spanner can service - Ford, Toyota, Volvo, (keys are expensive on them), Renault etc etc.
I would advise against the very common 1.6 diesel Ford PSA engine unless you get an 8v one later than 2010.
Volvo is a great shout - not maintenance free, but very robust.
Anything modernish and Ford is a good contender. 2.0 tdci Mondeo, or a 1.8tdci Focus?
2k would get you a very tidy Laguna 3 2.0 diesel. Robust as mountains, and run really well. All ours have been as reliable as dawn, and the oldest is just edging up to 220k. The 1.5 106 horse Megane 3 is a very decent and under rated car, and as cheap as chips, well within budget for a 2010 or so model.
I've been a bit disappointed in an Auris, not as good as some of the other Toyota stuff, but it's not dumped anyone on the side of the road yet.
I certainly wouldn't go for a A2. Too rare, too expensive, too old, too fickle for a run of the mill commute. Buy something that anyone with a spanner can service - Ford, Toyota, Volvo, (keys are expensive on them), Renault etc etc.
I would advise against the very common 1.6 diesel Ford PSA engine unless you get an 8v one later than 2010.
[quote=Timoo]Thanks for all the options posted, definitely all worth considering. Having just had my car go into the garage for a coolant leak, I had to resort to get it fixed as I can’t go without a car for work. Therefore after spending a bit of money on it, I’m not in any urgent rush to find anything.
For those of you who mentioned the Audi A2, I am actually conveniently located in Bristol where that specialist is, so might be worth taking a look at them.
A Japanese option always sounds like the go to for my situation though they tend to be mostly smaller cars and although not being too fussy, I would prefer to go for something a bit bigger if possible. I’ve noticed a number of Lexus’s would be within budget, such as an IS 220d, would these be worth looking at?
For example, something like this: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102239...
@ZX10R, Those Mercedes are something I hadn’t considered before, is it strictly only the 220/270d engines that I should look at? My only worry with them is that is something were to go wrong, wouldn’t it be significantly more expensive then the likes of a Ford Focus/Mondeo?
No they're not overly expensive to repair, parts are around VAG money but they rarely play up. You need to check the gearbox has had it's filter & fluid changes (every 40k) if it hasn't look to take £250 to get it done.
The IS220d is a nice car but the engines aren't the most reliable
For those of you who mentioned the Audi A2, I am actually conveniently located in Bristol where that specialist is, so might be worth taking a look at them.
A Japanese option always sounds like the go to for my situation though they tend to be mostly smaller cars and although not being too fussy, I would prefer to go for something a bit bigger if possible. I’ve noticed a number of Lexus’s would be within budget, such as an IS 220d, would these be worth looking at?
For example, something like this: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102239...
@ZX10R, Those Mercedes are something I hadn’t considered before, is it strictly only the 220/270d engines that I should look at? My only worry with them is that is something were to go wrong, wouldn’t it be significantly more expensive then the likes of a Ford Focus/Mondeo?
Edited by Timoo on Saturday 13th March 16:57
No they're not overly expensive to repair, parts are around VAG money but they rarely play up. You need to check the gearbox has had it's filter & fluid changes (every 40k) if it hasn't look to take £250 to get it done.
The IS220d is a nice car but the engines aren't the most reliable
Timoo said:
A Japanese option always sounds like the go to for my situation though they tend to be mostly smaller cars and although not being too fussy, I would prefer to go for something a bit bigger if possible. I’ve noticed a number of Lexus’s would be within budget, such as an IS 220d, would these be worth looking at?
Edited by Timoo on Saturday 13th March 16:59
You could get an IS 250 for that money though, it'd be a bit more expensive to tax and fuel but far less likely to be unreliable. Or an IS 200, but you risk rust as they're getting on a bit now. Something else to consider is Lexus parts are likely to be steep if you do need them.
In your situation I'd be looking at a Focus estate or something. Dull, yes, but decent to drive, big enough, and much cheaper parts.
I realised not too long after posting that 220d’s had a reputation for not being so reliable.
Ford’s definitely do seem like the sensible option, I think I would want to look mainly at either a focus or mondeo with the Titanium trim if possible. In regards to both these models, what are the best petrol/Diesel engines to go for and which ones should also be avoided?
Any opinions on Saab 9-3’s as well, notably the 1.9 Diesel engine? Or any other versions?
Ford’s definitely do seem like the sensible option, I think I would want to look mainly at either a focus or mondeo with the Titanium trim if possible. In regards to both these models, what are the best petrol/Diesel engines to go for and which ones should also be avoided?
Any opinions on Saab 9-3’s as well, notably the 1.9 Diesel engine? Or any other versions?
Timoo said:
I realised not too long after posting that 220d’s had a reputation for not being so reliable.
Ford’s definitely do seem like the sensible option, I think I would want to look mainly at either a focus or mondeo with the Titanium trim if possible. In regards to both these models, what are the best petrol/Diesel engines to go for and which ones should also be avoided?
Any opinions on Saab 9-3’s as well, notably the 1.9 Diesel engine? Or any other versions?
For me I'd say the 1.6 or 2.0 engines, either in petrol or diesel, for the Focus. I have a Mk3 Mondeo 1.8 petrol, and it's smooth and refined, but it's a bit gutless, so the 2.0 is the one to get if you're going for a petrol. Mk3 Mondeo diesels tend to be a mixed bag in terms of reliability - some do 250k without an issue, others offer nothing but problems. If you can find your way into a Mk4 2.0 diesel for your budget, they clock up strong miles fairly comfortably. Avoid a 1.8. Ford’s definitely do seem like the sensible option, I think I would want to look mainly at either a focus or mondeo with the Titanium trim if possible. In regards to both these models, what are the best petrol/Diesel engines to go for and which ones should also be avoided?
Any opinions on Saab 9-3’s as well, notably the 1.9 Diesel engine? Or any other versions?
9-3 is a much more interesting car, and the 1.9 is the JTD engine so was used in plenty of different cars, so they're a known quantity. Stout engines, but not without their foibles, though if you buy a well looked after car it shouldn't be a headache. 2.0 and 2.3 petrols are grand, but will be more expensive to buy and run.
I bought my daughter's first car yesterday.
I had forgotten just how good it feels when you stumble upon a little cracker of the car. This one was a private sale, Dacia Sandero, 13 plate, 48k miles, white, clean, tidy, fresh mot, new tyres, runs beautifully.
She's 17 in June so it'll be my runaround until she passes, later this year - potentially.
Photos to follow. Now I just need to decide whether to go for full or partial ppf and whether to add a ceramic coat on top. Also, gap insurance is a must.
I had forgotten just how good it feels when you stumble upon a little cracker of the car. This one was a private sale, Dacia Sandero, 13 plate, 48k miles, white, clean, tidy, fresh mot, new tyres, runs beautifully.
She's 17 in June so it'll be my runaround until she passes, later this year - potentially.
Photos to follow. Now I just need to decide whether to go for full or partial ppf and whether to add a ceramic coat on top. Also, gap insurance is a must.
As everyone says, something small and Japanese is where is would be looking. I say that, I was in a similar boat after leaving the company car scheme at work and have purchased an Audi A2!!
Although I really like the A2, it is a little niche and the ride quality isn’t great so you might have to be prepared to do the odd bit of maintenance to keep it running right...mine was £1300, so leaves room for work if needed.
Although I really like the A2, it is a little niche and the ride quality isn’t great so you might have to be prepared to do the odd bit of maintenance to keep it running right...mine was £1300, so leaves room for work if needed.
As for the "don't commute in an A2", I've had a 1.4tdi for 27 months and have done 30,000 miles in that time. Yes it is an old car, mine is 19 yes old. However, join the owners club and there are a few genuine enthusiasts that will help with any other issues. It's basically a polo running gear and mine has had basic services (cambelt & water pump etc) set of tyres and as I like playing with them, coilovers, rear bar and a remap. Mine being a sport has a few extras bits but IMO the 75 remapped is plenty fun for day to day. The 90 has a dmf and vv turbo that sometimes have ve problems. Great little cars IMO, parts are still available from Audi and most factors.
Got a few suggestions for you if you need a good motorway car.
SAAB 93 TID 2007-2011. Stay away from the TTID as at your budget it will be rubbish. They are also a massive pain to fix as there's not many place know what to do with them. the TID has more parts and cheaper to run. I had a TTID Aero until it blew up. On the motorway it were brilliant. So comfortable and absolutely everything (bar bluetooth for mobile), top spec and great car. Best part about the car other than the push out cup holder were the heated seats. I'd definitely own another one but couldn't find one close to me at the time within my budget.
Toyota Avensis D4D. Not much to say about these except they are reliable as it's a Toyota.
Toyota Auris 2.2 180. If you want a hatchbad then look into the Auris. They are OK but it does have stif suspension.
VW Jetta/Passat Audi A4 Skoda Octavia. Pretty much any PD130 or the newer 2.0TDI will be good on a motorway.
Honda Civic 2.2CDTI These are solid cars. A friend had a 2010 Type S. looks really nice and never had any issues.
Volvo S40 or v50 2.0. Both good looking cars and are reliable. I looked at S40 but for me the saloon were practical enough but might be perfect for you.
If I were you I'd be waiting out to see if your commute does drop. It's not worth selling your current car for the sake of 1 year. Trust me on that I've been there. If you are 100% going to be doing epic mileage then sell as soon as you can.
SAAB 93 TID 2007-2011. Stay away from the TTID as at your budget it will be rubbish. They are also a massive pain to fix as there's not many place know what to do with them. the TID has more parts and cheaper to run. I had a TTID Aero until it blew up. On the motorway it were brilliant. So comfortable and absolutely everything (bar bluetooth for mobile), top spec and great car. Best part about the car other than the push out cup holder were the heated seats. I'd definitely own another one but couldn't find one close to me at the time within my budget.
Toyota Avensis D4D. Not much to say about these except they are reliable as it's a Toyota.
Toyota Auris 2.2 180. If you want a hatchbad then look into the Auris. They are OK but it does have stif suspension.
VW Jetta/Passat Audi A4 Skoda Octavia. Pretty much any PD130 or the newer 2.0TDI will be good on a motorway.
Honda Civic 2.2CDTI These are solid cars. A friend had a 2010 Type S. looks really nice and never had any issues.
Volvo S40 or v50 2.0. Both good looking cars and are reliable. I looked at S40 but for me the saloon were practical enough but might be perfect for you.
If I were you I'd be waiting out to see if your commute does drop. It's not worth selling your current car for the sake of 1 year. Trust me on that I've been there. If you are 100% going to be doing epic mileage then sell as soon as you can.
Edited by Ankh87 on Monday 15th March 15:37
Thanks for all the feedback, especially Ankh87. To be honest even if my commute were to shorten, I can’t see myself in a position where I’d be doing any less than 15k miles a year, so I don’t see too much risk with replacing my car sooner rather than later.
Based on what everyone has said, I think either a Japanese motor, or Ford is the safest and most affordable option for me just due to the reliability and the fact that if something were to go wrong, it (fingers crossed), wouldn’t be too expensive to sort.
As much as I would like a Suzuki swift sport for a bit of fun, they are just a bit small for me annoyingly, the same goes for a couple of the other Japanese options. I do however quite like the look of the Honda Civic’s, didn’t realise these were well known for their reliability? I think the diesel 2.2 unless there is another engine that has a better reputation?
In terms of the other Toyota options, I don’t know what it is but I’m not so keen on the look of an Auris, also there aren’t really any 2.2s within my budget. The Avensis seems okay though although interior seems to lack compared to other options.
Unfortunately after looking more at Saab 93s, I’m struggling to find any within my budget (and within a reasonable distance to me), which is annoying as I’ve only heard great things about them and think one would be perfect for my situation.
Finally that brings me to the Fords, for my budget there are plenty of Focus’s available although not as many Mondeo’s though which I would prefer. For the focus, there’s been no mention of the 1.8 engines in any posts above, is this one to avoid and stick mainly to looking at either the 1.6 or 2.0?
Based on what everyone has said, I think either a Japanese motor, or Ford is the safest and most affordable option for me just due to the reliability and the fact that if something were to go wrong, it (fingers crossed), wouldn’t be too expensive to sort.
As much as I would like a Suzuki swift sport for a bit of fun, they are just a bit small for me annoyingly, the same goes for a couple of the other Japanese options. I do however quite like the look of the Honda Civic’s, didn’t realise these were well known for their reliability? I think the diesel 2.2 unless there is another engine that has a better reputation?
In terms of the other Toyota options, I don’t know what it is but I’m not so keen on the look of an Auris, also there aren’t really any 2.2s within my budget. The Avensis seems okay though although interior seems to lack compared to other options.
Unfortunately after looking more at Saab 93s, I’m struggling to find any within my budget (and within a reasonable distance to me), which is annoying as I’ve only heard great things about them and think one would be perfect for my situation.
Finally that brings me to the Fords, for my budget there are plenty of Focus’s available although not as many Mondeo’s though which I would prefer. For the focus, there’s been no mention of the 1.8 engines in any posts above, is this one to avoid and stick mainly to looking at either the 1.6 or 2.0?
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