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Replacement for Suzuki Swift Sport - recommendations?

I'm looking to change my 2009 Suzuki Swift Sport for something more robust, slightly larger, with fewer rattles and a more composed and forgiving ride quality.

I have been looking at the Audi A3 1.9tdi, BMW 116i and Honda Civic 2.2 CDTI. I'm leaning towards an Audi as research suggests it might be the best built with good paintwork (the Swift has annoyingly thin paint). Are there any other/ better vehicles that fit the bill?

I only do around 5000-7000 miles per year so I don't need it to be diesel.

Asked on 23 May 2012 by humphreya

Answered by Honest John
The A3 1.9TDI is the more reliable A3 diesel, but ride is very much dependent on wheel and tyre size. Decent on 195/65 R15s. Acceptable on 205/55 R16s. Gets a lot worse on 17s. The current shape Renault Megane on 15" or 16" wheels has the best ride in the class and is actually a decent car.

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