Car Buyers' Guide: Replacing your old car

Honda Civic. Photo / Supplied

The dilemma

Just when they didn't need the hassle or expense, Roger and Bev's Toyota Echo was written off in a rear-ender.

They're getting some insurance money but, as pensioners in their early 70s and without large financial reserves, replacing the Echo is a burden they'd rather do without.

"We were pleased with the Echo, and would be on for another, but it was only a three-door and we found that limiting," says Bev. "We'd want a five-door this time - automatic or manual - and while we'll be shopping for another Echo [these days known as the Yaris], we'd be keen to look at some other makes - but we don't want a Korean brand."

The three choices this week cover a range of styles and sizes. And we'll come back to the matter of the Korean snub in the recommendation.

The budget:
Up to $15,000

The shortlist

Honda Civic sedan
Seek out a seventh-generation Civic, introduced in 2001. It looks like its predecessor but offers somewhat better use of interior space.

True, Roger and Bev could go for a Honda Jazz, a car liked by many older drivers, but the Civic's another step up the ladder. Unfortunately for our couple, the Civic also holds its price well, although the costlier ones usually have low mileage. But it shouldn't be too hard to find a good one from about 2005 that won't break the budget.
From $15,000

Mazda Demio
These days, the Demio is something of a forgotten Mazda; in 2007 it morphed into the Mazda2. The slightly boxy Demio's not a particularly sexy car to look at, but it's a roomy, reliable runabout that can also cut it on highway trips. Look for a 1500 model. Demios are plentiful and widely priced; you can find older ones in less-than-brilliant shape for $5000.

We'd look for one about 2005 where prices are higher, but condition better and mileage lower.
From $11,000

Mitsubishi Colt Plus
Colt Plus dates back to 2004 and is basically a longer version of the standard Colt, with more boot space. It shares the swoopy looks of the smaller model. Performance of the 1500cc motor is quite snappy. There are some good pickings about the $14,000 mark for 2005-07 models.
From $13,000

Driven recommends

The nod goes to Mazda Demio this week because it's such a good all-rounder. However, we have another strong recommendation, and that's the Hyundai Getz. Yes, it's Korean and, yes, it's probably time people like Roger and Bev got over their dislike of that country's products.

Korean cars have come a long, long way since the Hyundai Ponys and Excels, have a deep support infrastructure and can be serviced anywhere. The Getz was imported in a fairly wide range of models from 2002, including some with a diesel engine. Driven reckons Getz would compare well against any of this week's suggestions from Japan, especially the 2006-on facelifted versions, good examples of which cost about $14,000.