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CodeMaster
Expert Member
- Joined
- Dec 4, 2003
- Messages
- 3,465
OK, a bit of background first...
Looking for a new car for my SO. She is currently using a Corsa Utility because her job requires her to transport bulky equipment around, like a exercise trampoline, mats, balls, etc. It is not often that the bakkie is completely full though.
The problem is that we are now expecting twins, so we need to look for a replacement vehicle that has sufficient storage space, and convenient for child seats, stroller, etc.
My budget is probably in the region of about 120k to 170k
I have been looking at the Toyota Verso, Honda FR-V and the Mazda 5. We still need to have a look at them in the 'flesh', but I would like to hear from people that have these cars. They each have their pros and cons, but the Mazda 5 is probably slightly ahead due to the sliding rear doors. My preference leans towards the FR-V though, as I have never really liked Mazda much, but I haven't driven a reasonably newer model though, so I will reserve judgment until I drive one.
Is there any other suggestions? I have even thought about double-cabs, but the safety and running costs put me off a little.
Things that are important:
- Large load area with easy access
- Must have basic modern safety features - ABS, air bags, etc. (fancier things like ESP, EBD not so important)
- Must have at least two ISOFIX mount points in the rear seats.
- Reliable and reasonably economical
- No real preference towards petrol/diesel
- Gadgets like fold-down trays behind the front seats (Mazda 5) etc, might be a bonus selling point
Another thing, and I realize this will be different for most people, but what average percentage of your salary do you spend on your cars? This question is probably aimed at family people, because single people will generally spend more on a vehicle than any other expense.
Looking for a new car for my SO. She is currently using a Corsa Utility because her job requires her to transport bulky equipment around, like a exercise trampoline, mats, balls, etc. It is not often that the bakkie is completely full though.
The problem is that we are now expecting twins, so we need to look for a replacement vehicle that has sufficient storage space, and convenient for child seats, stroller, etc.
My budget is probably in the region of about 120k to 170k
I have been looking at the Toyota Verso, Honda FR-V and the Mazda 5. We still need to have a look at them in the 'flesh', but I would like to hear from people that have these cars. They each have their pros and cons, but the Mazda 5 is probably slightly ahead due to the sliding rear doors. My preference leans towards the FR-V though, as I have never really liked Mazda much, but I haven't driven a reasonably newer model though, so I will reserve judgment until I drive one.
Is there any other suggestions? I have even thought about double-cabs, but the safety and running costs put me off a little.
Things that are important:
- Large load area with easy access
- Must have basic modern safety features - ABS, air bags, etc. (fancier things like ESP, EBD not so important)
- Must have at least two ISOFIX mount points in the rear seats.
- Reliable and reasonably economical
- No real preference towards petrol/diesel
- Gadgets like fold-down trays behind the front seats (Mazda 5) etc, might be a bonus selling point
Another thing, and I realize this will be different for most people, but what average percentage of your salary do you spend on your cars? This question is probably aimed at family people, because single people will generally spend more on a vehicle than any other expense.
