Petrol CLCs?

[ChiefWiggum]

Let me explain...

For the last couple of years I was driving 14k+ pa, and my trusty steed was an early Golf mk5 1.9TDI (PD). Much of that mileage was 100 miles cruises up and down the M40, and the car has been as frugal and reliable as I'd hoped, However, I'm down to about 7k pa now, with a short commute (7 miles) through town on rough roads.

I want a bit more comfort and refinement than the Golf can offer now, and although I don't want something terribly thirsty, I don't need 50+ MPG. I'd also love to try a self-shifter. I've already done the classic/sportscar thing (MGB, MX5) and the warm hatch thing (106 Rallye, ST170) and I'd like a change away from VAG cars.

Although it never reviewed terribly well, an early (2008-9) CLC 180k or 200k SE Auto for around £11-12k seems like it would tick most of my boxes. I can live with the slightly awkward looks, I don't need the fancy sunroof, or the paddle-shift and big alloys on the Sport.

I'm pretty sure it'll stack up well on a test drive versus the old Golf, but I'm interested in hearing some real-world insight into living with these cars. Reliable? Comfortable? Acceptable economy? Usable space?

Alternatives would be an IS250, Freelander2 (strong prices, especially at the moment), V50 (reliability?), or a 1-er/3-er (4 cyl petrol autos from that era don't have the best rep)

Thanks in advance for any input!

Edited by ChiefWiggum on Thursday 9th February 09:17

[pointedstarman]

Can't comment on the CLC as I not owned one myself (though a friend rated hers) but can recommend the 1 series & 3 series as have owned both. For your money a 2008 320i auto with the later 170bhp engine would give good performance and economy with low CO2 (146g). I recommend the 3 over the 1 as you're looking for a bit more comfort and the 1 doesn't fit the bill in my view.

The only issue with the car is the use of run flats which aren't everyones cup of tea. I changed to normal tyres & a space saver spare - not an option for the 1 series as no well for a spare - which greatly improved the car. Don't believe the press about this being a problem for the car due to suspension set ups as starting / stopping / grip was, if anything, improved.

This said, as long as you stay with the SE version the ride on run flats if fine. Would suggest you aim for leather if you can find one as it greatly improved the car and its subsequent resale.

I've owned BMW's as a commuting car for 10 years and not had a single problem in all that time s reliability shouldn't be an issue.

[va1o]

Its a really dated car given its based on the C-Class saloon from 2000 and the engines are similarly archaic compared to Mercs newer CGI units. The supercharged 1.8 isn't bad though, makes a nice sound for a 4cyl and goes well enough. It probably wouldn't drive as nicely as the Golf though which really does have the best chassis of any small-ish car from that era.

CLC is a bit odd as it doesn't really have any direct rivals, can move up to a 3-series/ A5 Coupe or sideways to a 1-series or A3 3dr. On the plus side get it in the right trim and it looks smart, and the interior feels fairly upmarket provided it has some form of leather seats.

If you go for it try and find one where some misguided individual has spent £££s on extras, does little to increase the value but will make it feel more Merc-like.