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Good morning,

I’m looking for a small economical and reliable car for my daughter (19 years old, restricted license).

I’m not a fan of “Imports” so was wondering what you would recommend that is NZ new around $5000 (possibly stretch to $6000), under 100,000km if possible and automatic (non CTV).
I understand the following are NZ new and reliable, Toyota Echo, Daihatsu Sirion, are there any others you would recommend?

If I was forced to get an import what would you recommend? It must be non CTV. I understand some of these are imports and reliable, Mazda Demio, Nissan March, Toyota Passo, are there any others you would recommend?

If I went for something older with higher mileage say around 150,000km, once again economical, and reliable are the main requirements, what would you recommend?

Thanks for any advice you can give.

Gary

Hi Gary,
We would recommend finding the newest car with the most safety features you can.
You have included some great options and may even look at the Toyota Corolla or Japanese import Toyota IST. 150kms would be getting the max level of KM's where you can get a modern car that should have just had a larger service, cambelt ect at 100k and due for most things again at 180-200km. Naturally things could start to show signs of wear and require replacement in order to keep on the road from this point on. CVT's mainly seem an issue up to 2010 on some Nissans and Hondas, with Mazda and Toyota being more reliable in those years.