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I could do with some advice if possible. What would be a good NZ New (strictly not a Jap Import) that would be a good value hatchback without too many kms? 150k is okay, but not too much higher. I need something to last me through my years at Uni and won't be too painful to get fixed.
I currently drive a Peugeot 206 which has been generally good, once the clutch, break pads and battery was replaced! Though this was a Jap Import, so that is why I don't want another one and will avoid imports at all costs. With a budget of around $6k, what is your opinion on these ones? Are there any possibilities I missed? (No Subaru's as well).
Renault Clio, Hyundai Accent, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Pulsar
Some advice would be great!
In reality, in this price bracket there's probably nothing wrong with considering a Japanese Import. At this price, it is likely to be a car that has been in New Zealand for a good few years and hopefully been well serviced here.
Having said that, if you can find an NZ new car with a full history, that would still be the preference.
The issues you mention with your Peugeot (brake pads, clutch, battery) are all maintenance items and have nothing to do with the car being imported. You would still have those things to attend to on any car.
Of the models you mention, the Corolla is a good car and enjoys a great reputation for reliability but the prices remain high and you're likely to be looking at older, high mileage Corollas in this price range. Pulsar and Accent are definitely worth considering but I'd suggest a European car in this price range may cost more to maintain.
The best advice in this price range would be to opt for a run of the mill Japanese model such as Toyota Echo/Vitz, Mazda 323/Familia or Nissan Pulsar.