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Hiya. Looking at buying a used car around the $9,000 mark. Noted in the AA review of the 2006 Tiida that it "doesn't exhibit the best value for money in the class." Can you give me an idea of what did/does? Have been looking at safety ratings too - Ford Focus, Honda Accord and Mazda 3 get 5 stars, Tiida 4 stars. I realise it's a broad question... sorry. Any 'narrowing down my options' tips welcome. Prefer a boot, auto and with some guts for long distance driving.

I think our reviewer was meaning that the Tiida isn't loaded with features and it's perhaps a bit of a plain Jane compared to some of the competitors, however, he was reviewing the car when new and in the $30k+ price range. As a $9k used car, the perspective changes a little and the Tiida now represents quite good value as it's probably a little cheaper than and equivalent condition and mileage Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic etc, which would all be its natural competitors in the marketplace.
We'd have no hesitation recommending a Tiida, but try to find a NZ New example or an import with the 4 speed automatic, rather than the CVT transmission that many imports have.
The Mazda3 is probably the best all-rounder in this class (features, styling, safety, driver appeal etc), but you will probably pay a premium over a Tiida.