Ask an expert

I'm about to replace my car and am having difficulty deciding what engine size is best.

Above all I am hoping to get a reliable motor that is fuel efficient. I will be using the car for city driving in the week but will be going on long trips most weekends (regular trips to Mt Ruapehu in the winter from Auckland).

I would like a station wagon and am thinking about a Toyota. My price range is between $4,000 to $7,000.

What litre engine would you suggest? Do you think a 1.5 would be too underpowered for longer journeys? Would a 2 litre use much more fuel on long trips?

I am having difficulty finding 1.8 Toyota station wagon that aren't 4 wheel drives.

Sally

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

You will need to reach some compromises here.

A two litre vehicle is going to be much better for the long trips and may be more economical than a smaller 1.5litre especially if you carry a reasonable load (passengers and luggage).

If you don't mind a manual transmission, this will also prove more economical than an auto and reduce the risk of any future expensive transmission repairs.

The Toyota brand is a good choice for the price bracket you are in, but I would look for a NZ new wagon which were all two wheel drive.

If you could increse your budget a little more I think the options would be much better.

Another very good choice would be a 2.0 litre Toyota Caldina 'G' two wheel drive which are all Japanese imports and have proved very reliable and good value for money.