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Hi - I need to replace the old car and need something cheap to run and fuel efficient as am a solo mum. But also need something that will get me up the mountain for ski-ing. What do you suggest? Most of the time the car is used for getting me to work (20km a day) and taxi-ing children around. Help appreciated!

Can you give us an idea of the budget and advise if will you be considering SUVs?

If you are considering buying a new SUV then you could consider the Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi's Outlander, Toyota RAV4 or Kia's Sportage.

Yes - would consider an SUV - maybe a compact would be best?
Budget - $15,000 at very most!
Cheers

In this price range you won't get the most fuel efficient SUV's but you could consider the Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail (non-cvt gearbox), Hyundai Tuscon and Mitsubishi's Outlander. Engine size to look for will be from a 2.0L to 2.5L petrol.

What price would I need to pay for the more fuel efficient ones and what are they?
Also are any of them cheaper in terms of insurance costs?
Many many thanks

New vehicles will have better fuel consumption, as car companies are working hard to reduce exhaust emissions and improve fuel usage, but they are a lot more expensive to buy.

Hi thanks for replies so far. How do these SUVs compare with say a Subaru Legacy or Carib? Would these be better, cheaper options? Are there any other 4WD cars available that are not SUVs?