Ask an expert

We are considering buying a small, second hand car for the family and for me to commute to work.

Can you advise on which small, safe and economical makes and models you would recommend?

We have a limited budget.

Tim

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 15 August 2009

A huge amount will depend on that limited budget to be honest, the smaller the amount you have to spend will mean some compromises will need to made particularly with safety.

It's hard to go past the Japanese brands to be honest. The previous model Mazda2 (pre 2007) is an excellent choice as is the Honda Jazz, Toyota Echo, Nissan Micra (if you don't need a lot of extra room) or a Hyundai Getz (Korean).

I would try and stay away from high mileage vehicles. If you work on 15,000km's per year multiplied by the vehicles age it should give you a good average to work with. For example if you are looking at a 5 year old car then the odometer should be around 75,000km's especially for a small car.

Also try and find a car with a good proven service history and for this reason I would initially look at NZ new vehicles first. Another good place to look is the Toyota Signature range. While they have used Japanese imports they all go through a comprehensive reconditioning programme prior to sale.