Disabled driver 1st car £4k must be auto :)

[jakesmith]

Asking for friend
Guy is a new driver but needs auto for health reasons. Has £4k

Priorities are:

Reliable especially gearbox
Doesn’t look like something for an OAP

Can anyone make suggestions, it’s not my area

Thanks

[Auto810graphy]

Has he checked eligibility for the Motability scheme? As a first car the insurance element will be worth a fair bit plus a reliable car to use.

[MrGTI6]

Best bet is to get something with a torque-converter auto rather than a dual-clutch auto or automated manual.

A Mazda 2 might be worth a look. The auto is an old-school 4-speed which came only with the 1.5 petrol engine. About 100bhp from memory, but I can't imagine insurance would be too horrendous for a new driver.

Hyundai i10 1.2 auto is also worth a look. A bit less sporty than the Mazda but there's loads of them around.

[FastEdd11e]

I will second the Motability scheme.

I've been on it via the War Pension for over 20 years. It offers decent cars and you can really pile on the mileage.
The best part is that when you hand them back the inspection isn't as rigorous as a private lease. All of our cars have had a very hard lifre over the 3 years.

There is plenty to chose from.