As Search is down, I can ask this with a clear conscience

For my dearest parents.

Diesel, price 8k (might go to 10 but I very much doubt it).

Not really fussed about power or toys, but not too few of either.

Ideally about 3-4 yrs old

5-dr hatchback that you can put a big dog in the boot (so not a Saab-style hatch). Possibly a small estate. Think “practical”.

Mainly used for trips of 30 mins rural, occasionally 3hrs on the motorway.

Should last for the next 5 yrs, maybe 10.

Last cars were Cortina estate, 205 1.4, Mondeo diesel estate.

I’ve suggested Focus TDCi, and perhaps the post-2002 Toyota Corolla hatch – I heard they were a bit more interesting than the previous ones? (No, not the Fensport one!) Could be a Verso if we can find one. Possibly something like a Skoda, but do they do a small estate - Fabia estate?? I’m lost at the plethora of Honda Civics available. I also sent them a link to the Top Gear Toyota Hilux video

Any others? I don’t see them in a Golf (a bit luxury, and the 3 yr old ones are yuk) or a Volvo, French stuff is a bit dodgy at present, and I don’t know much else about the Jap market – Nissan, Mazda.

Cheers

 

Fabia Estate TDi or Octavia Estate TDi would be the top of the list.
Don't forget the Focus Estate TDCI either.
Forget all Japanese cars except a Corolla diesel, as their diesel engines are crap.

 

Cheers Reffro, why did I think you'd reply?

The above is a sweeping statement about engines - I won't disagree with it, but could you briefly explain why? I'm curious.

 

Almera Tino 2.2dci will easily suit that budget

A bit agricultural to drive (not in a bad way it is a mini-MPV afterall). But a very practical car indeed, All rear seats foldable and removable.

We once got a 6 seater patio table and chairs (chairs not flat packed) , plus the 3 rear seats and was 6" away from shutting the boot (photos to proove) Even though it's shorter than a Focus Estate, it would have been impossible to fit that lot in a Focus.

Only a few flaws. One is the heater/radio controls is based round a LCD display (reversing camera too which is v. ) can be a bit fiddly to look at whilst driving. Engine is slightly noiser than competetors, but MPG matches a 2.0TDCi Focus. It doesn't like revs, but leave it in high gears and use the torque and you'll ever need to rev it past 3.5k anyway.

Only problem is finding a 2.2dci is like hens teeth, shed loads in Spain though. They are going to stop making them this year, so keep an eye out for discounts.

 

Root around and you can get a Polo/Ibiza Estate TDi.

 

320d or 520d touring?

 

A Fabia Estate would be my first choice for them, only have to look at the JD Power/Topgear results to see how highly they are rated.

I'd go for the 1.9TDi PD100 as it loose little in mpg to the 1.4 but has far more grunt.
My wifes Fabia 1.9TDi will get mid 60's mpg on a run and is like a little rocket with 184lbft in a supermini.

Dealers tend to charge a premium but supermarkets often have Fabia's in.

Motorhouse 2000 www.mh2k.com have a 2002 Fabia Estate in for £5199 only draw back is the lack of aircon. Otherwise the 1.9TDi Comfort comes with Elec windows and mirrors, ABS, EDL, EBD and Traction Control.

If they are prepared to wait a while they should be able to pick up a one to two year old low milage example with aircon for under £7k at a supermarket.

If the Fabia is going to be too small then have a look at the Octavia. Even the hatch back is massive and you will easily get a dog in the back. You can currently pick 2004 Ambient TDi's up for under £9k. These have all the safety gear fitted as well as aircon etc. The ambient has the older TDi engine and is a little noisy but is very economical and will easily do 50mpg+.

Cheers
Lee