Advice on buying a Fiesta

Several years ago following your recommendation, I bought a 2007 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi Zetec. I have been looking at possible replacements and as I do a lot of city driving, (up to approx 15000 miles pa) I am considering the Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Zetec S, SEAT Ibiza 1.2 TSI and Ibiza 1.6 TDI. I know very little about the SEATs and their engines, but like the quality of 'German' vehicles. Can you recommend which of these vehicles may be appropriate or better? Do you think it might be worthwile changing soon to try and avoid possible DPF/other problems or expensive cambelt service?

Asked on 9 April 2012 by Nickos

Answered by Honest John
Yes, if it's a 1.6TDCI 110, good to get out before turbo, DPF and DMF problems that could collectively cost £5,000. To avoid these problems, look seriously as a SEAT Ibiza 1.2 TSI, tested here with the ST estate body: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/seat/seat-ibiza-st.../

Similar questions
I am looking at a Sept 11 ,61 plate Citroen C3 1,6 automatic exclusive at £8995 from main dealer. Are you happy with this automatic? Test drive was good. However I hired by chance a Hyundai 130 1.4 manual...
I need to replace my aging Ford Ka with a vehicle suitable for carrying my grandchildren (five and seven years old). Most runs will be short distances, perhaps 15 miles or so! I would prefer five-doors...
I have a choice between late 2008 1.2 12v Skoda Fabia, 23,300 miles @ £5500, and 2006 1.4ES Honda Jazz, 46,000 miles @ £4779. Which one please? Both have full service records and both have been well...
Related models
Well built with an upmarket interior. Enjoyable and involving to drive. Cheap to run 1.6TDCI ECOnetic. Exceptional reliability record. Very few problems reported despite more than 500,000 sold.