Car Buyers' Guide: Time to downsize

BMW I Series. Photo / Supplied

The dilemma
It suddenly dawned on empty-nesters James and Joan that there wasn't much point in keeping their BMW 5-Series sedan now that they only have themselves and their spaniel to haul around. Plus, they've had a good run out of the BMW for more than nine years and wonder whether they should let it go before some big bills bite.

They started thinking seriously about a replacement after trying out a friend's Mercedes-Benz A-Class, a small car that won them over with its roominess and style. "But," they asked Buyers' Guide, "isn't that the one with the safety problems?"

Oh dear. Nearly 15 years later, the infamous "elk test" incident still haunts the car. This was when an A-Class rolled during a manoeuverability test in Sweden, causing Mercedes to recall all cars and quickly develop Electronic Stability Control, along with a suspension modification.

The fix worked, but the incident tarnished the reputation of one of the most innovative small cars ever built.

The budget:
About $20,000

The shortlist

Audi A3
The Audi's quite different from the Mercedes, but makes a worthy alternative. Although built since 1996, we're suggesting the second-generation, introduced in 2003.

Its platform is shared with VW family vehicles such as the Audi TT, Volkswagen's Golf, Caddy and Touran and the Skoda Octavia. New Zealand has had a wide range of A3 models, covering three doors and five, runabout to wickedly sporty. We'd recommend a five-door hatch from around 2006, which hits our couple's budget sweet spot.
From $20,000

BMW 1 Series
After a good run from the 5 Series, it might be tempting to stay with BMW. The 1 Series was launched in 2004 and shared many components with the larger 3 Series. Available with either petrol or diesel engines, it quickly gained a good reputation, although some find its interior a bit snug. It's the only one of the three with rear-wheel drive. Low-mileage examples from the mid-2000s are within budget and we'd put forward the 2.0 litre 118i as a good representative model.
From $20,000

Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The bad news is that there aren't a lot of A-Classes on the used market. The good news is that those that are often have low mileage and have been well kept. Models were imported with various engines, from 1.6 litres, petrol and diesel, and in different trim levels. Prices vary widely; older cars go for as little as $5000, while more recent ones fetch in the mid-$20,000s. James and Joan have the budget to look for the second-generation W169 launched in late 2004.
From $20,000

Driven recommends
We're looking at three Europeans of good pedigree and quite different personalities. A good mechanical inspection by someone who knows the brands is essential, as repair bills can be high. But a well-maintained example of any of the three makes is capable of providing years of good service. James and Joan should choose with both head and heart here. If they really like the Merc and find a good one, they should buy it; Buyers' Guide, however, would recommend the 1 Series, because it's really stylish and a whole heap of fun to drive.