Eire today

I have a Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 16 valve GLS that is coming up for 12 years old and am looking for a new or nearly new car as a replacement. I would like something a little larger and a little more sporty, yet am conscious of green issues so want to keep emissions as low as possible. I have been considering the Mazda 3 and the VW Golf so far. My driving is mostly urban with the occasional longer journey and generally low mileage. Can you recommend any particular option and also advise on the most economical way to purchase - I live in Ireland so am considering either buying there or looking at importing from the UK.

Asked on 24 January 2009 by

Answered by Honest John

In Ireland you can't avoid Irish taxes on new cars, so, if buying new, best to buy there. On second-hand there are reduced rates depending how old the car is, so it can be worth importing but it’s complicated. Matt Murphy can advise you about that, and source a car for you. Email: matthewmurphy9188@hotmail.com If you want bigger, I'd say a Focus 1.6TDCI, a KIA Cee'd 1.6CTDI or a Hyundai i30 1.6CDTI. Or wait for the new Hyundai i20 1.4CRDI, arriving in January.

Tags: buying buying abroad new cars used cars

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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