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Hi there,
We would like to buy a new car. After having some research, we narrowed down the choices to two different models. First is the Toyota Ractis 1.5L. The second one is Mazda Verisa 1.5L as well.
We could hardly get any information (including through www.rightcar.govt.nz and the "dog & lemon guide") about the Toyota Ractis. The Wikipedia (...) site does not give much either...
Could you kindly advise us about the pros and the cons in each car, according to these next criteria:
1) We need the car to be safe (yes, I know the rules of physics - the heavier the car - the safer it is, and so on).
2) The transmission (what is advised to buy? We have read about the problems that CVT transmissions generally have).
3) Petrol consumption and gas emission: We would like to save money and save our precious earth.
4) Our use of the prospective car is mainly in the city; however, once a year we may have a longer trip either to Tauranga or Kerikeri areas. Would they survive the way to and from those areas (we're in Auckland).
Thanks a lot for the advice upfront.
Have a safe day,
Ryan
For the most part, these two are very similar and are direct competitors. For most of your criteria, there will be very little between these two.
1) Safety-wise, it's good that you realise the small car vs big car issue - many people don't. So, obviously, they're not as big and strong as some cars, but they're on par with others in their class.
2) The Ractus models we've seen have been CVT (although, we believe some may be conventional 4 speed auto). Best to stick to the conventional transmission if possible.
3) Fuel economy and emissions will be very similar and both will be quite frugal - so there's really nothing between them in this regard.
4) As both are 1.5 litre, 4 cylinder cars, they're quite suitable for your needs. They're economical city cars but will cope with longer trips too..
So it really comes down to buying a car in the best condition, with the lowest mileage possible. Given that the Verisa is more likely to have the standard transmission as opposed to the CVT, it's probably the one to go for, but otherwise it's a line ball call.