Big Commute Car Advice

motorguy

forgotmyname wrote: »

What MPG do you get with the Astra? Modern diesels can have fairly large repair bills so you need to choose wisely.

Dual mass flywheels and diesel particle filters can be costly to replace. The DPF also uses extra fuel when they regenerate. Some cars need a special fluid also. Check to see what system the car your thinking of uses.
And ask them what happens if its in a regen cycle and you stop before its done.

Some cars will start again next time. But after so many fails it maybe a dealer job. Although with a commute like that it shouldnt be an issue.

DPF and DMF issues are most prevalent on diesel cars doing short runs - wear occurs on the DMF most at startup from cold while the engine is vibrating. DPF issues should be minimal too as its getting the opportunity to regen - not so if you're doing short round town work.

TokyoMaru

Motorway miles? Try a 2.0L diesel of some description. I know the 2.2CDTI Honda Civic is fantastic for MPG, and also a blast to drive. Its also in your price range.

As for satnav, I think nothing can really top a TomTom in terms of in car navigation.

F1F93

Vw polo 1.2 TDI? In a road test going round the m25, it managed about 80mpg through two rush hours. Should halve your running costs if you're not fused about the Bluetooth and satnav.

Winger15mk

Yes majority motorway miles thank goodness, can't see DPF and DMF being an issue as I very rarely do short runs in comparison.

Definitely got me thinking about the money I could save maybe avoiding the inbuilt goodies even though they would be nice.

Ill check out the civics and the polos then thanks again all!

Prothet_of_Doom

I would be spending less than half your budget, as the miles will cost in depreciation.

topdaddy_2

Id seriously consider trains.

gabitzul

Quite a few people praising the 2.2 Honda engine here. I had one of them and don't fully agree.

Whilst is a solid engine, if fuel economy is the most important aspect I think there are better engines out there.

I would be looking at a car with a long 6th gear and an engine like a 1.5 Renault diesel or a Polo bluemotion (1.4) or something.

Winger15mk

Any have any thoughts on the Diesel Renault Megane? Seen it can get a whopping 80mpg on spec! And has bt/sat nav?

motorguy

Winger15mk wrote: »

Any have any thoughts on the Diesel Renault Megane? Seen it can get a whopping 80mpg on spec! And has bt/sat nav?

The 1.5dci is not a good engine. Can be v troublesome.

motorguy

Winger15mk wrote: »

Any have any thoughts on the Diesel Renault Megane? Seen it can get a whopping 80mpg on spec! And has bt/sat nav?

As I said earlier but I think you must have missed it golf 1.6tdi. I have averaged 65.5mpg over 15000 miles