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Shifting circumstances

We are opting for either a new Ford Fiesta Zetec automatic or a new VW Polo SE 1.4 DSG-7. Our budget is approx £15,000 to £16,000 in cash which of these would be best, or should we choose something else?

Asked on 3 April 2010 by C.R., via e-mail

Answered by Honest John
First, don't believe Ford and VW 'list' prices. £15k to £16k is a ridiculous amount of money to spend on a small automatic hatchback, despite the dire state of Sterling. The Polo 1.4 7speed DSG is a nice, sensible small automatic with a very dated engine. Best wait for the new 1.2 TSI. The Fiesta is very stylish and well liked by the market, but seriously overpriced at list. You need to secure at least a £3,000 discount. The best bet in this bracket is a Suzuki Swift 1.5 auto at about £11,000.

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