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Hi, I’m looking at upgrading my car. I’ve got my eye on either a 2008 Toyota Corolla GLX Auris 180G S-Package,1800cc Dual VVTi Petrol Automatic 57,000km or a 2012 Ford Focus Trend NZ New 2000cc 120,000km. Is there anything to look out for with either one of these models?

Hi there,
I would recommend the Corolla over the Focus, as the Ford has a Powershift transmission which has proven to be very problematic and we receive many complaints about it.

Thanks for your feedback. I am also looking at a 2013 Holden barina, any red flags with this model that I should be aware of? Which would be more better between the Toyota and the Holden?

No real red flags that I'm aware of in the Barina, the newer the car the better from a tech and safety system point of view,

Thanks again for your feedback. I’ve been looking at some online reviews of the Barina and it would appear they have issues with oil leaks, is this something you have heard other members complain about? I am now looking between a 2010 Auris and a 2013 CDx Barina or a 2014 CD Barina, your thoughts on which would handle better on longer trips to and from the Waikato to Auckland every weekend using the back roads which are hilly?
One of the cars has a sunroof, I have never owned a car with a sunroof before, are there many issues with leaks etc

Hi there,
With newer cars that are just out of warranty, we would generally hear about issues if the manufacturer wasn't giving assistance and the owners saw the need to contact us. The Barina is potentially more of a town car and the Corolla might be a better size for travel. Modern sunroofs are not too much of an issue as they used to be, with leaks and poor operation particularly as they are not used all the time and can give trouble once it starts getting used. Sometimes the roofline can be lower if the car has an electric sunroof.