Ask an expert

Hi,
I am looking for a used car to buy for mostly longish distance travel as opposed to round town--ie Ham to Akld or Tauranga every now and then, and regular trips to Te Awamutu or Raglan.
I have been looking at Mitsubishi colts, but everyone seems to be warning me away from them--do you agree? My price is around $7000. Other cars that have appealed are Honda fit / jazz or civic.
I am a single female with little car knowledge who is hoping for reasonably trouble free motoring. I have also been told to stay away from European cars such as the VW, because they are costly to repair.
My price range appears to be too low for a post-2000 Toyota or Suzuki. Any recommendations?
Thanks very much
Angela B.

I would not warn you away from the Colt but I would try and avoid a used import of this model and the Honda Fit (Fit was the name given to the Jazz in Japan) .

There is too much uncertainty over the transmissions to be honest. You’re not out of the woods entirely with a NZ new vehicle but at least you should get the full backing from the respective franchise networks if required.

The Civic is a good car in this price range as is a Nissan Pulsar or Mazda 323. I can’t disagree with the comments made about European cars however never assume other makes/models are bullet proof.

At times its better to try and spend a little more to help reduce the potential risks that your current price range holds as you will no doubt be looking at reasonably high mileage vehicles.