The A3 will be very nice on the inside but a bit of an expensive disappointment after the Focus1 in terms of driver enjoyment. How about a Focus 2 and save a few grand. Then a Focus 2.5, save another few grand and before you know it, you'll be in a Focus RS and you'll have driven arguably the "best" cars for your money en route. However if driving dynamics aren't high up your list, get a Golf (for the badge) or Octavia (for the space and value) over the A3.

Don't really like the shape of Fabia so wouldn't consider that. A Fiesta would be okay I guess. Any ideas on what models to go for? I have always been told high spec models hold their value a bit better? What is the new shape Fiesta like? Shape is not too appealing to me but prefer to a Fabia. also, my Ford focus is a Ghia so has a few neat touches to it that I would like on my new car. However, I guess a fair assumption is that a lot of these things are standard nowadays?

I have looked at Focus 2 but am worried about depreciation as there is a new model coming out soon I believe. However, I do really like the look of the car and not many people my age have them. Are they likely to depreciate massively after this new model comes out? Although I will be buying my car after this model comes out I imagine. Also would love a Focus ST yet insurance and fuel costs put it waaaay out of reach. I am 18 and have 1yr ncb.

Also my current Focus has fairly low mileage for age I guess (70k) and is in pretty good nick apart from a few fag burns on the seats. I am just bored of it now and would like something a bit newer and possibly more powerful. However, newer and nicer are the main things. Would only consider a 1.4 if the car was perfect in every other way.

Edit: not too worried about saving money as I am only 18, pay cheap rent at home and hopefully will stay that way for a little while yet lol So would like something nice to put my money towards :)

Thanks for all replies/advice so far!

Edited by hoyak on 14/02/2011 at 18:05