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I am looking at replacing my 1995 Ford Laser vehicle which has done just over 131,000kms. It has been a very reliable vehicle to date but am thinking that I should upgrade to a newer vehicle before parts start to wear out and maintenance costs start to increase. I would like something that has more safety features and economical to run around town but also on long road trips.

As I have mostly had Fords during my driving life and having had no major issues with them I have considered the Ford Focus as a replacement vehicle. As I am getting older I would like something a bit higher off the ground for ease of getting in and out of but still want good boot space and four doors so am wondering if I should look at some other vehicles? I don't want anything too big.

Can you recommend some vehicles that may be suitable for me to consider within a price range between $10,000 to $12,000?
Thank you, Lynda

Without trying to confuse you I have listed a couple of vehicles which may appeal. I suggest you have a look at these as a starting point and then come back to me with comments (good and bad).

• Suzuki Swift - currently NZ’s most popular new car model this calendar year. Has been a huge seller based on looks, economy and price for many years now. There is a new model available which is also selling very well which means there must be some good used examples in Suzuki yards currently.

• Suzuki SX4 – Big brother to the Swift but not overly big. Very underrated and practical vehicle. May have that exit/entry benefits you are looking for.

• Ford Focus – The Focus has been a very good car for Ford over a long period. Practical, reliable, comfortable; it ticks a lot of boxes.

• Toyota Corolla – the old favourite for many. They hold their price because of their reputation for reliability however you can pay a premium because of this.

• Mazda3 – Another popular vehicle for a long time.

• Honda Civic - As above.

• Mitsubishi Lancer – Very underrated and can present excellent value for money.

  Safety features can vary depending on a specific model but all of the above have adequate safety features in keeping with vehicle age and the price range you are in.

  NZ new verses used import is another argument. At this stage I would try and find a NZ new vehicle with a proven service history.

  Come back to me with your thoughts.
  

Thanks for the list of cars to look at Jack. I have looked at a range of the models you suggested and the prices for late model Suziki's, Mazda's & Mitsubishi's are quite considerably higher than I am able to afford.
I have looked at Toyota Corollas & Ford Focus and would like your opinion - in terms of safety features, fuel efficiency and ongoing maintenance costs, & value for asking price - which vehicle would be worth looking at further. Or whether I should keep looking or look at some older vehicles. What would be the upper limit for odometer reading that I should consider?
Toyota Corolla
2005, NZ new, 1 owner, 1800 manual, 2 airbags, ABS, odometer 122,000 ($11,990)
2008, NZ new, 4 airbags, 1800 auto, keyless entry, immobiliser, odometer 75684 ($19,990)

Ford Focus
2008, NZ new, 2ltr auto, ABS, keyless entry, immobiliser, odometer 64,104 ($17,990)
2008, 2ltr manual, Hatch, odometer 92,814 ($14,490)
2008, 2ltr manual, hatch, odometer 98,m269 ($14,674)

Could you also tell me your thoughts on keyless entry? Are these best to avoid? what happens if the battery runs flat and you can't get into the vehicle?
thanks for your time. Lynda

For me, it comes down to the latest model with the lowest odometer reading and equal safety features (I assume the 2008 Focus and the 2008 Corolla have a similar number of airbags).

Based on that, I would look seriously at the Ford Focus.

Keyless entry is not a problem. If the battery was to fail you will always be able to open the car by using the ignition key.

Even where vehicles are fitted with a Stop/Go button instead of a ignition key, there is always a key (usually hidden in the keyless entry remote) available to open the door.

"latest model with the lowest odometer reading "

I would go for that too