Gone two the dogs

I have to change my beloved 07 plate MINI Cooper for a slightly larger car in order to transport 2 dogs. I want a car that is almost as much fun as the MINI but with a more generous boot (with back seats down). The local BMW dealer has offered a straight swap with an 05 plate 1 Series 118i sport with 13,000 miles on the clock or the other alternative I have been offered is an 07 plate Golf 1.4 TSI GT with 27,000 miles, same deal. I own the MINI outright and had hoped to get at least £11,000 for it. What would you recommend?

Asked on 31 January 2009 by

Answered by Honest John

Alternatives to these are a MINI Clubman, of course, a Mazda 2 1.3TS2 and (surprisingly) a Suzuki Swift 1.5GLS. The Swift actually outhandles the MINI. If going for a BMW 1 Series, a 118d Efficient Dynamics is much more fun to drive than the 118i, and has the benefit of £35pa TAX and 40mpg capability. I would not go for what is now the 'old' model Golf.

Tags: buying dogs small cars

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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