Buying a new car - cheap to run, can get to the dog in the boot - but still good fun!

I'm looking for a (nearly) new car, preferably five-door, that can fit a dog in the boot, with quick acceleration and some 'pizazz!' (I can't get excited by the undoubtedly brilliant VW Golf or Ford Focus)

I've got £15K plus whatever I get for my (slightly damaged rear winged) 07-plate Yaris.

Of the following three, which would you go for?
Audi A3 2.0 TDI 170PS
BMW 120d SE
Alfa Romeo Guiletta 2.0 JTDM

Asked on 12 January 2011 by Roodeberg

Answered by Honest John
BMW 120dSE, even though there is a new front-wheel drive 1-Series on the way. It's the only car on your list with a chain cam engine.
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
    Select a few terms below
Similar questions
Can you help us? My husband is 61 and I will reach 60 next year. We would like to change our car for something newer and also to get better miles per gallon. We have had our 1993 Audi 80 2 litre automatic...
I have decided to consult your experience after my father’s unwavering belief in your reviews for years. I am a British army officer currently posted in Germany. Thus I am looking into the possibilities...
I recently ordered a new Audi A3 from an Audi dealer. I added several options and negotiated a reasonable discount, bringing the purchase price to £23,000. I waited 10 weeks for the car; it arrived at...
Related models
More likely to turn heads than a Vauxhall Astra. Eager petrol and diesel engines.
Good choice of engines. Some petrol engines now chain cam. Comfortable and well built interior. cheap to run 1.6 TDI. Feels very refined especially on the motorway.
Great to drive and superbly built. Wide choice of models, improved from 2007 with Efficient Dynamics. 118d is super economical.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer