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I am looking for a used car. Budget is prime consideration in terms of both outlay and ongoing running costs. My searching has focussed mostly on the Outlander, Hyundai Tuscon or Corolla Allex (AWD). However I saw a Suzuki SX4 which seems to tick all the boxes in allowing me to go up the mountains yet better in fuel efficiency. Can you tell me anything about this car and whether it is reliable, safe and a good buy? The one I have seen is a 2008, manual.

The models you are considering are quite a diverse range of vehicles. However, in answer to your question about the manual SX4, this model should tick all the boxes you're looking for. Obviously, it's smaller than the Outlander and Tuscon, but will be more economical too. Being a model sold new in New Zealand, the SX4 would also be more mainstream than the Allex AWD which is available here as an import only.
On that basis, I think the SX4 would probably meet your requirements better.