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Hi guys

I'd like your advice. I'm upgrading my faithful old Nissan sunny which has done me well but is getting on. I'm looking at the best bang for my bucks for approx $25,000. Or less. Requirements are late model hatch, some good grunt and not the smallest models such as swifts, Barinas, polos etc.

I mostly drive around town.

Peugeot are doing deals on their 207 - a bit small for me, and the 308 auto for approx $26,000 new.
I've never owned a euro car and have heard that service costs, repairs, insurance, gas etc all cost a lot more.

I shouldn't mention what I really love - the Alfa Romeo gulietta manual. Took that out for a drive and loved it, but their reputation for reliability is not the best.

So, do you have any thoughts on the peugeot vs Japanese? I don't like the idea of spending lots on maintenance, but I like euro styling.

Thanks,

Sarah

Hi Sarah,
Generally speaking, the Japanese cars do have a great reputation for longevity and reliability but the European cars are fantastic to drive, so as you've found, it's a bit of a dilema. Like you, we loved driving the Alfa Romeo Guilietta, but for the reasons you mention, there are question marks around whether it would be a good car to own once the warranty has expired.
The one thing you mention that we would not agree with is that European cars are heavy on gas - that's generally not the case. However, servicing and maintenance is generally higher.
The medium compact sized cars you are referring to are generally in a higher price range new, but you could consider a slightly used example. Perhaps a used Mazda3 might be a good compromise. It has decent styling, good driving dynamice and Japanese reliability.

Hi

Thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it. I'm glad to hear you guys enjoyed driving the alfa too, it was just fantastic on hills and corners.
I stand corrected on the gas issue, it sounds like the new European models are quite efficient on the gas even if you need to put 95 in or higher.
I'll take the Mazda 3 out for a test, thanks for the recommendation.
Cheers
Sarah