Which manual car could we buy to replace our 2000-registered Lexus IS 200SE?

Your reply about the new MoT made me think that perhaps I should consider changing my 2000-registered Lexus IS 200SE. As an 80-year-old we do around 5000 miles a year, with a high percentage of short journeys. I have about £13,000 - £15,000 to spend. We would wish for a similar ride (my wife is not a good traveller) with a manual gearbox, 4 or 5-door with a reasonably sized boot, without low profile tyres. The Skoda Octavia has a hard ride, which rules it out. Any suggestions for a 1-2 year old car would be appreciated.

Asked on 6 February 2012 by WT, via email

Answered by Honest John

The most reliable car you could buy would be a Lexus IS 250 automatic on 16-inch wheels with 205/55 R16 tyres. It's also astonishingly refined. The manual 6-speed box doesn't work well with this engine. Otherwise, the best ride in the Focus class is from a Renault Megane on 195/65 R15 tyres. But it's well worth considering a new Mazda 3 1.6TS2, currently on sale for a bargain £13,500, brand new.

Tags: manual gearbox ride comfort wheels and tyres reliability

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