What Car?

[Qdos Contractor]

Another vote for the Alfa here. I'm on my second 159 and I can't imagine driving anything else. Surprisingly low priced as well.

My last one came from Chris Variava in Nottingham - good selection there.

[gingerjedi]

Thanks everyone.

Clippy, I saw the XC60 this morning and assume it would be out of budget, yes. Shame.

Tyke, I have to say, I'm seriously wondering whether the new shape Mondeo hatch would suit me. My sister has a Focus and it's not really big enough for what I'd like - much more cramped in the back than my current car. The Mondeo has some excellent reviews.

I like that Alfa too now though.

If you like the size of the Mondeo but want something different why not consider a Mazda 6? Sporty handling, nice interiors, good stereo, bomb proof reliability, loads of space etc etc.

I've got the previous model but plan on getting a new one soon. Mazda 6 Hatchback - Summary - New Car Review - What Car?

[MaryPoppins]

Another vote for the Alfa here. I'm on my second 159 and I can't imagine driving anything else. Surprisingly low priced as well.

My last one came from Chris Variava in Nottingham - good selection there.

I know nothing about Alfa Romeo's, but I think they look lovely. I think all I know is that they used to be known for being unreliable. Is that not the case these days?

[MaryPoppins]

If you like the size of the Mondeo but want something different why not consider a Mazda 6? Sporty handling, nice interiors, good stereo, bomb proof reliability, loads of space etc etc.

I've got the previous model but plan on getting a new one soon. Mazda 6 Hatchback - Summary - New Car Review - What Car?

Thanking you, I will have a look!

[sasguru]

If you like the size of the Mondeo but want something different why not consider a Mazda 6? Sporty handling, nice interiors, good stereo, bomb proof reliability, loads of space etc etc.

I've got the previous model but plan on getting a new one soon. Mazda 6 Hatchback - Summary - New Car Review - What Car?

I second this. Ticks all the boxes.

BMWs and Alfas are not as reliable and cost a bomb to fix.

[Qdos Contractor]

I know nothing about Alfa Romeo's, but I think they look lovely. I think all I know is that they used to be known for being unreliable. Is that not the case these days?

That certainly used to be the case, but the newer models are much better. There's definitely a stigma about them and people will always raise their eyebrows when you say you've got one, but I've never had any major issues. Don't know anyone else who has either.

Touch wood. My engine will probably fall out on the way home now I've said that.

Had a 1.9 Diesel before and it wasn't quite powerful enough, but the 2.4 is a dream.

[sasguru]

That certainly used to be the case, but the newer models are much better. There's definitely a stigma about them and people will always raise their eyebrows when you say you've got one, but I've never had any major issues. Don't know anyone else who has either.

Touch wood. My engine will probably fall out on the way home now I've said that.

Had a 1.9 Diesel before and it wasn't quite powerful enough, but the 2.4 is a dream.

When something does go wrong, and it will, spare parts and labour are priced at permium brand levels which Alfa is not, using mainly parts from the Fiat bin.
So if you want to get ripped off then buy an Alfa.
However they're not even that good looking anymore.
IMHO the Mazda 6 hatch is the 1st good looking jap car with the estate being the best looking of any brand ...

[Mich the Tester]

[MaryPoppins]

That certainly used to be the case, but the newer models are much better. There's definitely a stigma about them and people will always raise their eyebrows when you say you've got one, but I've never had any major issues. Don't know anyone else who has either.

Touch wood. My engine will probably fall out on the way home now I've said that.

Had a 1.9 Diesel before and it wasn't quite powerful enough, but the 2.4 is a dream.

I think I would see the Alfa as slightly more of a risk than something duller, like the Mondeo or a Volvo. Parkers is saying: A recall in 2007 for a possible loss of vehicle control caused by an oil leak. There was a second in 2007 where the brakes may fail. A further recall in 2009 for a potential reduction on braking assistance caused by a faulty vacuum pump.

[MaryPoppins]

God. I totally love that. Loads of space, too.