What car should I get next? ...

[muddyfox470]

Well...

It's nearly the time that I am looking to get a new car, my current car, a K-reg Volvo 480 (2 litre petrol) has been with me for almost 4 years, and fairly recently the insurer paid out as it was uneconomical to repair, but didn't cat-d it, it was only minor damage, but they paid me a fair sum to put towards a new (second hand) car.

I really don't know what car I want, but I know I am asking a lot for my money, but essentially I have about £2,500 to spend (max)
I'd like the car to be:

• Diesel
• 6-Speed Gearbox if possible
• Low Tax
• 2001 or newer (new tax rules) - so low emissions a bonus
• Reliable
• Big enough to store junk and move around, but doesnt need to be huge, I have looked at estates which give the right one I'd probably jump at
• Looks aren't too important, I prefer ease of use and whats infront of me as a driver

I've looked at:

Nissan Primeras
Honda Accords
Volvo S40/S60
Toyota Corolla
Honda Civic (although the 1.7 diesel is derived from some random company iirc)

Literally any ideas, fling them my way and I will have a look. I'm hoping my current car will hold up over the winter months when I travel to Europe, but I am hoping for a replacement in February to save me forking out for more tax etc.

[Guy]

Why 6 gears?

Just because there are 6 on the box, wouldnt automatically make it more economical than a 5 speed with the same final drive ratio.

For what you are looking for I would say a Mk1 Focus. Or a Seat Leon.

The Accord, and both Volvos arent hatchbacks either so will limit how much stuff you can fit in them, and the ease of which you can just sling stuff in the back.

[CAT-THE-FIFTH]

One with wheels.

[finlay666]

Mondeo or Passat IMO, more the mondeo though with a TDCI engine

[kalniel]

Astra 1.9 diesel estate or mondeo 2.0tdci

[mycarsavw]

High mileage, well maintained VAG group diesel.