Which economical two cars would you recommend for returning ex-pats?

We are returning to the UK after 30 years abroad to retire. We are looking to buy two cars, one small as a runaround and one medium-sized for longer trips. Our total budget is £25,000. It must be automatic and must have air conditioning. We are not looking for new cars, but economy is important. While abroad we have driven Mazdas, Toyotas, Fiats and Hondas - all have been very reliable.

Asked on 21 June 2010 by bryan45

Answered by Honest John

Small: Hyundai i10 1.2 Comfort auto at about £9000. Bigger: current model Ford C-Max 2.0TDCI Powershift auto, currently massively discounted because it will be replaced by the new C-Max in December.

Tags: air con automatics economy medium cars reliability small cars

Similar questions

Should I change or keep my current car?

I am looking to change cars because I want to drive more economically following a change in my income. I drive a Mercedes B180 CDI Auto on an 08 plate. While I love the comfort this car provides the Maintenance...

Should we replace our 2002 Jazz with the latest model?

We have had a Honda Jazz 1.4 SE since 2002 and, apart from two fairly minor problems (an EGR valve problem, which you identified, and a rear wheel bearing failure) have had trouble-free motoring since...

Small car recommendation please

I want to buy a second-hand car for 25 mile commute (busy roads) & longish runs. £4500 budget or thereabouts. High reliability is a must; high fuel economy ideal. Nothing else matters. What would you recommend? Thanks

Related models

Ford C-MAX (2003 - 2010)

Best entry and egress of any car anywhere. Excellent front seat comfort.

Hyundai i10 (2008 - 2014)

Cheap to own. All models have airc on, five seatbelts and flat folding rear seats. Rides and handles quite well for its size. 99g/km Blue model from early 2011.