Auto (TC – no DSG) and estate, or large, D sector hatch. Chain cam. Under £5k. No prestige brands, these are too tired and old at the price point and too liable to huge bills, see discussion on Mercs. Under 80k miles ideally. Likely to be more reliable than Laguna. VED band K or lower. Around 5-8 years old. Reasonable performance when compared to economy (i.e. no Lancer 1.6s - something doing 25mpg needs to have a pay off for that, i.e. a bit of pep, but conversely the hybrids with their promised 60mpg compensate for the lack of performance). No MPVs or SUVs. Decent interior (no cheap plasticky ones, no naff fabric patterns and no leather (yes, I'm weird) . Capable of long cruises in comfort and peace. No Vauxhalls.
Petrol or diesel negotiable. I’ll take the economy hit (remember I can use the Golf diesel as a daily if required, although that's not the most economical car in the world either due to TC auto) for the right car if it’s petrol.
I think it comes down to sticking and swallowing the faults, or changing to a Mondeo or a Mazda 6. Toyota Avensis 2.0 petrol is thirstier than the Maz and not so attractive a car to me. Just doesn't 'do it' for me. See also Accords.
I think that’s it.
:-)
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