Buying a car for high motorway miles

I need to buy a motorway cruiser to travel around 40k miles a year as economically and comfortably as possible.

I'm thinking of travelling at mainly in the outside lane, and spending around £10k to minimise depreciation (given the car will be worth a fraction of that after the 3 years I was thinking of keeping the car). Is this a reasonable premise? What car and engine type will best fit this need to compromise performance, cost and fuel economy without leaving me a wreck at the end of each journey, and where best to source it?

Asked on 5 February 2013 by Rob Rees

Answered by Honest John
If you put on 120k over 3 years the car will be virtually worthless. I don't know what would stand up to it without problems. I think probably a Mondeo 2.0TDCI would be your best bet. Econetic if you can find one because they will do 50mpg.
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
    Select a few terms below
Similar questions
I start a new job this summer which will see me doing up to 30000 miles on business. My new employer isn't providing a car, but will pay me a mileage allowance. The mileage is beyond what I want to put...
I am looking for some suggestions, as I would like to replace my current car within the next 6 months. I currently own a 05 plate Mazda 6 (1.8l petrol) with 105k on the clock. The car is superb to drive...
I want to change my car to meet our new requirements. Some years ago you recommended the Seat Leon Cupra TDi, which I bought. I love this car but as age creeps on (I will be 60 soon) and as we mainly do...
Related models
Very good to drive. Refined and comfortable to travel in. Massively roomy cabin and huge boot. Reasonable value. Efficient ECOnetic and EcoBoost models.
 

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