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Hi there
My trusty old Mazda station wagon has breathed its last and I am looking to upgrade to something newer (2001 - 2006ish), either a hatchback or a small sw, that will last me and my small family a good long while.

The key things I'm interested in are;
Fuel economy
Safety
Reliability
Enough room in the back for 2 car seats
Enough power to occasionally pull a trailer full of hay and have a bit of zip
Good boot size
Good turning circle
Low mileage

I'm looking to spend $8 - 12K (though 12 is a bit of a stretch) and have been considering Mazda3 (Axela), Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic (though I hear the turning circle makes the hatch a nightmare to park?), Mitsubishi Lancer.

Your advice on some good options would be greatly appreciated, thanks.

In this price range you will struggle to find everything you are looking for in one vehicle but there are some good choices to consider. A Toyota Corolla/RunX and the Mazda 3/Axela have good reputations in the used hatchback segment but you could also consider the 1.8L Toyota Caldina wagon (non-D4D engine).

If you decide to stick with a larger wagon you should consider the Honda Accord 2.4L or Mazda Atenza wagon.

Wagons will have a larger turning radius than a hatchback.

Very helpful, thanks for your time.