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Buying a small family car, automatic, with good fuel economy for under £10k. What would you suggest?

I have up to £10,000 to spend on a used car. My wife, who will do most of the driving, can only use automatics. We will do less than 8000 miles per year, but fuel economy (both urban and motorway) is very important. I need something with a good sized boot (to fit baby kit in etc.). A diesel would be perfect, but they seem to be very rare in automatics. Can you suggest a few models to look for?

Asked on 17 January 2011 by Willc

Answered by Honest John
I don't recommend current DPF equipped diesels for such low mileage, but you might find a 2008 KIA cee'd 1.6CRDI auto or a Hyundai i30 1.6CRDI auto for your money. Petrol makes more sense because though economy is worse, repair and replacement costs are far lower.
Dear Honest John,

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