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d.todd
By d.todd | AA Member | 2 Posts | 24 February 2016 at 10:00am

Due to a recent accident I'm looking to replace our family station wagon. I tow my single-axle trailer and put all kinds of tools and luggage in the car on various occasions. What should I look for? As I'm in Auckland should I get an automatic or stick with a manual?

Anon
By Cade | AA Expert | 3937 Posts | 24 February 2016 at 4:08pm

Hi there,
I recommend an Automatic for Auckland, and it will also give you a wider range of possibilities.
Also factors can be your budget (new or used) and country of manufacture preference. Euro vs Japan ect.
A popular choice now days is a small/ medium SUV they give the space, ground clearance, and road presence that is a great benefit.
Vehicles like the Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-3, Honda HRV, Nissan Qashquai, or small wagons like Honda Accord Euro, Mazda 6, and Toyota Corolla Fielder/ Caldina.
This may give you an indication of where to start anyway.
If you are towing, then I recommend you not buy a vehicle with a CVT transmission, they may not handle the loads very well. Late model are a bit better but under 2010 I would give a miss.