What do you recommend as a workhorse for rural use?

I have a 2008 Focus Zetec 1.8 TDCI estate with 42,000 miles recorded. You described the engine as "awful" and you were right. Despite remapping it has a considerable flat spot just above tickover that provokes stalls, particularly when carrying loads or towing a trailer. Clutch action is coarse and I worry about the dual mass flywheel. However, it manages 51mpg and is comfortable, but I need a workhorse/estate. I live off tarmac up a forestry track and down a green lane, thus, I have uphill starts in both directions. Front wheel drive is not ideal for such terrain but I'm reluctant to invest in a thirsty 4x4 as I've managed without for thirty years. I've lost track of what is available. Annual mileage is 12,000. Cash available is £8000.

Asked on 17 March 2012 by RW, Tintern, Monmothshire

Answered by Honest John

Try to find a KIA cee'd or Hyundai i30 1.6 CRDI, preferably from before 2010 when they did not have diesel particulate filters.

Tags: towing dpf offroad

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