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My trusty Subaru SW has just given up the ghost and been sold. We are looking to spend around $15k on a replacement - reliability and safety are key considerations. We have been looking at Toyota Avensis as the local mechanic said Toyota always a good bet for reliability. We would appreciate your advice on whether to go for a 2ltr or 2.4ltr in the Avensis? I've read the blogs about the D4 motor so would be sure to get VVTI. We do about 2/3 of our mileage around town with the rest in long trips - does the 2.4ltr give that much better performance on open road than the 2ltr? Also would you recommend NZ new or import - it seems the NZ new vehicles traditionally have higher kms and perhaps cost a little more - would we be better for our money to get a higher km NZ new or a ower km import? And we would also appreciate your advice on whether the Mazda Atenza or the Ford Mondeo would be better options for us to look at?
The Toyota Avensis is a great car without the D4 engine. Note that the D4 engine can also have VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing intelligent) function. VVT-i is fine without the D4 (Direct Injection).
The Mazda 6,Mazda Atenza and Ford's Mondeo are great vehicles as well as the Toyota Avensis. They have good reputations. Another consideration could be the Toyota Caldina. The 2.0L engine size should be adequate for your needs - as long as you are not planning on towing anything heavy. The only downside to Japan imports is they generally do not come with a service history. The cars mentioned are common on our roads so I would not be concerned to buy a Japan import in this case. If you can get your hands on a New Zealand new car for the same price and mileage as well as a good service history then it would make more sense to opt for NZ new. It would be wise to have a pre-purchase inspection carried out on the vehicle you consider to buy. A good choice would be the Mazda Atenza as they are generally well priced, good reputation for reliability and easy on the eyes.
That's incredibly helpful thanks - will search those other makes/models and see what compares. I see the Altenza comes in 2000 and 2300 engine size - any pros or cons either way with that one?
Performance will be slightly better on the 2.3L engine but you will also use a little more fuel. The 2.0L engine should be sufficeint for your needs.