Suggestions for a New Car (Budget $40k to $70K)

darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 09:00
Last edited 23/06/2020 - 12:24 by 1 other user

Greetings Ozbargainers.

Request your opinion as I am planning to buy a new car this financial year. (not sure it helps in tax, as company income has stopped and I recently moved into a permanent job, but the deals would be good at this time.). Apologies for the late call for help, and I know not much time left.

Currently, drive an old C-180 Mercedes Benz, but frankly, it has outlived its utility. Love the car, even though the performance is not great.

My budget for the car is between $40k to $60k (can increase to $70k if the car is great) and requirements are below:

Family car, prefer sedan with a decent performance, but open to SUV
Auto is preferred, but not a requirement
Good milage- and open to hybrid cars
Something that my sons can drive too in the not so distant future (17, 15 yrs old)
Good safety features
Min is 5 seater, with ample leg space, as kids are approaching 6'
Prefer petrol, but open to suggestions
Driving mostly over weekends, and an occasional long drive

Can extend my budget, but only for Tesla Model 3.

Following brands are preferred, but open to suggestions-
Mercedes Benz, BMW, Toyota, Mazda, Honda.
I will appreciate your prompt response and any suggestion.

Cheers.

Automotive Car

closed Comments

  • trippple on 23/06/2020 - 09:11
    +13

    Something that ticks all the boxes but isn’t as luxurious as a BMW: Subaru Outback, premium version.

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 10:06

      Thanks. Will look at that. Have heard good things about Subaru.

      • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 11:44
        +2

        Also if you're not too concerned about fuel economy, the 3.6L flat 6 Outback has a bit of get up and go.

        • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 13:05
          +1

          Ok, thanks.

          • Ozbarganator 2000 on 23/06/2020 - 15:20
            +1

            @darkmattersunB6c0MV: Subaru just came out with Hybrid if that interests you.

            • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 24/06/2020 - 08:13

              @Ozbarganator 2000: Thanks.

              • khepri on 24/06/2020 - 09:24
                +2

                @darkmattersunB6c0MV: Subaru hybrids are still fairly fresh and don't give you that great a fuel economy saving for the the premium

                However definitely have a look at the Outback, amazing cars, Subaru seem to have an EOFY deal at the moment with free servicing for the first two years on outback, forester and XVs well as a mat pack thrown in. Outback services are still every 6 months I think, forester has been pushed out to 12 month intervals so consider that if you want something a bit taller cargo space wise. Overall the outback is a more polished car though.

  • Caped Baldy on 23/06/2020 - 09:17
    +5

    Can you describe your circumstances more? You've written that you just moved into a permanent job, but I wouldn't recommend buying an expensive car if you just started a new job.

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 10:05

      Thanks for your comment. Was running a company, and moved into a permanent job ( it is a secure, Govt permanent job). Company now being run by wife, but income has stopped for the company. So, the budget is OK.

      • Caped Baldy on 23/06/2020 - 10:22

        Ahh okay then. I'd look into one of the new Subaru hybrids. Pretty much all Subaru's have AWD which is heavy and costs fuel economy but the hybrid system will help.

        Maybe not Tesla if it is mainly for long weekend drives as recharging can take several hours.

        • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 11:44
          +5

          I wouldn't bother, the Subaru Hybrid system is super light touch and barely aids fuel economy. Not worth the money.

          • Caped Baldy on 23/06/2020 - 11:57
            +1

            @[Deactivated]: Thanks for the info, that's a real shame.

            • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 12:08
              +1

              @Caped Baldy: Pleasure mate, agreed. I'd be grabbing one as my next car in a few years but it's practically useless. Watch a video review, some aussie guys did a good one and it has basically the same economy as the non-hybrid but it's heavier, more complex and doesn't have a spare tyre.

        • Mikeee on 23/06/2020 - 20:51
          +1

          Tesla charging only takes hours if you're using a destination charger, usually minutes if you are charge at a supercharger or any of the range of fast chargers out there. There are a growing number of chargers from Tesla, Evie, NRMA, RACV, ChargeFox.

          It's true that it does take a different type of planning for long trips in most cases it shouldn't stop you from enjoying your weekend :)

          Apps like plugshare and a better route planner help alleviate most range anxiety.

          To check if there are chargers in the areas you are occasionally going on long trips to take a look at a better route planner https://abetterrouteplanner.com

  • Brucet on 23/06/2020 - 09:36
    +3

    If you are looking for reliable, quality cars.
    I suggest Toyota.

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 10:07

      My brother also suggests Toyota. I know it has a good resell value too. Thanks.

      • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 11:45
        +3

        You should just get the V6 Camry and call it a day dude. Looks good, drives good, practical, performance, plenty of room in the back for the giant kids, plenty of room in the boot, Toyota quality and resale value.

        • Rupture on 23/06/2020 - 12:12

          As someone that owns an Aurion (aka the last generation Camry V6), FWD sucks with the amount of power on tap.

          • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 12:40
            +1

            @Rupture: Sure, but it's still better than a gasping 2.5L 4 cylinder, no? Plus I'm sure the newer Camry has only improved on it.

        • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 11:47

          looks good?

          • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 12:05

            @boostpak: Subjective obviously, but it's a lot better than previous Camrys and I'd say only the luxury sedans look better out of sedans you can get here.

            Unless we're including the Stinger?

            • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 12:09
              +1

              @[Deactivated]: forget even mentioning luxury sedans in the same sentence as a Camry. Very different league of car. Until you've actually owned both you would know exactly what I mean. If you actually know about cars you would know too.

              • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 13:23
                +2

                @boostpak: ??? Of course they're different you goose, but they're double the price and outside OP's budget.

                • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 14:31
                  -2

                  @[Deactivated]: camry looks good, if you are an 80 y.o grandpa

                  • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 14:38
                    +1

                    @boostpak: Have a look through your comments here mate, you sound like a 15 yr old.

                    The Camry is a perfectly fine looking car, and you shouldn't be picking a car based solely on looks anyway (which are subjective).

                    • stewy on 24/06/2020 - 20:09

                      @[Deactivated]: Actually the centre dash design is absolutely hideous in the new Camry.

                      Other than that, they are actually quite well equipped and drive good for the money, even in the base models we have at work.

                      I'd consider the Hybrid or V6 though as the 4 cylinder is just a bit too lacking for my liking.

                      • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 20:13

                        @stewy: Again that's a matter of taste! I think it looks alright, better than the boring old Camry interior at least, and it's practical.

                        But yes, agreed that even the base models drive OK and I'd definitely get a hybrid or V6 if it were me.

      • WilhelmBargo on 24/06/2020 - 19:11

        If resale value is your concern why are you buying the car new? your new vehicle will immediately depreciate the moment you leave the dealer

  • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 09:42
    +4

    What do you only for a Model 3? A Model 3 is going to be a way better car than anything else in your budget. Just drive one and you’ll buy it (that being said, good luck getting a test drive, pretty sure they have sold all demo cars Australia wide). It make the new 3 series look like a dinosaur.

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 10:08

      Ok, will have a look. Thanks!

    • THICKnSLOW on 23/06/2020 - 10:58
      -3

      True but keep in mind all Tesla models are electric cars, they are not hybrids, so you will get range anxiety if you plan to go on holidays almost interstate with it.

      If you can find any Infiniti suvs they may suit

      • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 11:42

        Right. So you’re recommending an Infinit over a Tesla. Lol.

      • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 13:07
        +3

        Maybe wait for Tesla a bit longer. Now, stick with conventional cars.

        • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 17:00
          -1

          Why?

    • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 15:12
      -5

      It make the new 3 series look like a dinosaur

      Tesla fans are hilarious.

      The build quality on a BMW makes a Tesla look like a toy.

      I'd rather buy a car that:
      A) has buttons for things; and
      B) is built by a company that has been making cars for more than five minutes. It's hard.

      • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 17:18
        +2

        I find it hilarious that people who have never been in Teslas love to denigrate them and just rehash the same keyboard warrior bullshit, over and over.

        • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 17:41

          Mate I don't have to get in one to know how it's made. There's well-known complaints all round.

          Plus every time I drive or walk past one I could throw my wallet through the panel gaps from across the road.

          • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 17:56
            +6

            @[Deactivated]: So you’re literally confirming that you’ve never been in one and you’re rehashing crap you’ve read in the internet. Thanks for completely destroying your own argument.

            • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 18:34
              -7

              @[Deactivated]: You don't have to go in a vehicle to look at photos of it.

              You don't have to go in a vehicle to hear reviews about poor build quality and recalls.

              Since when do we only accept anecdotal evidence?

              • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 19:35
                +1

                @[Deactivated]: You can find photos of panel gaps and poor build quality on any car online. It’s not exclusive to Tesla, and obviously Tesla has made big inroads with production quality. And since when is a recall a bad thing? And how many recalls do you think Tesla has had? You’re promulgating unfounded bullshit which probably stems from some kind of weird hate that jay airs warriors seem to wear on their chest.

                • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 19:50
                  -1

                  @[Deactivated]: Wtf is a jay airs warrior?

                  Mate there have been loads of reports of bad workmanship. You don't get that with any other car that costs that much. Tesla have a lot going for them, I don't know why people feel the need to defend this.

                  • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 20:01

                    @[Deactivated]: Personal experience with European cars and Teslas? The ability to see through a world of internet bullshit for the real truth?

                    Oh, and jay air warriors was keyboard warriors. iPhone autocorrect.

      • Mikeee on 23/06/2020 - 20:53
        +7

        I have both a BMW M3 & a Tesla.
        Tesla wins any day of the week in practically every aspect except the sound of the exhaust.

        • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 22:06
          -1

          Yep, people just don't get it till they drive one. My mum recently replaced her E class with an X3 3.0i. Even the latest X3, which is built on the latest G- floorpan, and has the latest infotainment system, is just a complete dinosaur compared. It has some attributes, it's camera system is amazing, and for an SUV, it really does handle well, but compared to a Tesla, it's night and day. My old man had an order in for her to get a Model 3, but she refused it. Mind you she's 70 and isn't a fan of regen braking.

          The BMW's electronic safety systems are amateur hour. The rear collision assist slams the brakes on when you back out of their driveway, because it thinks the road is an obstacle (and it's hardly steep). Ended up having to turn it off. The BMW version of autopilot? Forget about it. It steers you into the emergency lane, and doesn't warn you audibly when steering isn't engaged. You have to rely on spotting that the lane icons have disappeared in the head up display (which is an excellent head up display).

          • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 11:50
            +1

            @[Deactivated]: What are you talking about? Have you even driven a BMW. With this type of info I doubt you have. The autopilot would never do that.

            • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 11:53
              -2

              @boostpak: Yes, obviously I have if you’d even bother to properly read my post, it’s pretty clear. And the drive assists are junk. The only freeway it worked on was Peninsula Link (although it tried to throw me off at an exit), it was useless on the Monash with its older lines.

              • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 11:58

                @[Deactivated]: It works perfectly fine, I have driven about 5 different 2019 models and they all work amazing. Don't listen to this bloke.

                • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 13:30
                  -1

                  @boostpak: It just doesn’t. Your definition of perfectly fine must be extremely skewed. It’s not even close to Tesla AP1 and that was pushing 6 or 7 years ago. They’re in V3 now, and anything V2+ is very good but not flawless. The BMW system is terribly flawed.

      • Momotsuki on 24/06/2020 - 13:32

        Previous car was BMW 325i, currently driving Tesla M3 SR+. I do agree that the build quality on BMW is far superior. My M3 panels all look fine, the only slight gap is the rear left door. The trim on my BMW was definitely of higher quality than the "vegan leather" interior of my M3, although the seats are way more supple with way better lumbar support in the M3.

        I'm also quite a minimalist so I don't miss having all the buttons and knobs of my BMW. I really like the clutter free look of the M3. I also found that the speedometer placement not detracting at all and very easy to get used to (and most of the time I have autopilot on anyway).

        Overall, I like my M3 more and find that it's just more fun to drive. Definitely no regrets, and don't think I can go back to a non Tesla vehicle currently.

        • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 13:40

          That's fair and I'm not saying they're a bad vehicle.

          I would just rather spend my tens of thousands of dollars on a more experienced car manufacturer! That wouldn't be BMW or Tesla for me.

        • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 22:25
          -1

          Honestly dude, the leather on 3 series (Maybe it's better on a 340i and it's definitely better on an M3) is terrible. It's stiff, cheap compound leather. I'd rather the plastic.

  • dasher86 on 23/06/2020 - 09:57
    +1

    add another $10k to the stretch and you could work for Westpac.

  • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 10:11
    +3

    VW Passat Wagon.

    Lots of leg room, boot room, and is a well built car with generations of revisions. Actually German made unlike some "premium" badges. Pretty sure none of the Passats use the problematic dry clutch.

    Downside - not the best looking car at that price, boring drive (but isn't actually slow), currently in mid-end gen cycle. Sound system is good but not up to the optioned Merc/beamer/Audi upgrade good.

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 10:23

      https://www.motoring.com.au/2020-volkswagen-passat-priced-fr…
      Thanks. It seems that it also comes in Sedan and looks fine to me. How has your experience been with servicing and maintenance?

      • ellave on 23/06/2020 - 10:51
        +3

        if looking at a Passat look at the Skoda Superb - pretty much the same car but cheaper

        • harryzee on 23/06/2020 - 11:07
          +1

          I have 2 Skoda superbs and one Audi Q7. The Skoda has way more leg room and the second row seats are like a limo. It's not as wide as the Audi. We bought the Skodas new in 2012 and have very few minor issues. Highly recommend the Skoda.

        • macfudd on 23/06/2020 - 19:32

          Agree with this too, we got a 2012 Superb Wagon and few years ago it's been brilliant. We have the 3.6L V6 so its got a bit of get up and go too. Wouldn't say it's particularly economical in stop/start city traffic but it's quite efficient on long drives and that seems to be what its built to do. We've loaded it up several times with 4 adults and a bootfull of stuff and travelled 8+ hours with all in comfort. You could get the Sedan I guess, but the extra space in the wagon is really useful.

          Plus for your kids, it's got heaps of room in the back seats, massive amounts of leg room actually. My father is 6'5 and has no problem fitting.

          I've even done a few trips wedged in the middle seat myself, and while it's not my preferred position, it's not too bad either.

          We tried a Passat as well at the time and they were pretty good from memory. But don't just go off what I'm saying, give them a test drive, you might hate them both.

      • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 15:12
        +1

        I don't have a Passat as I don't need a four door sedan but I would get one if I ever did.

        I have had other vehicles from the VAG company, all save one were made in their their main plant. The one that wasn't had some issues, the rest have been perfect.

        I never service at dealer. I pay $80/hr labour and I BYO oil and filter so each service ends up costing me ~$200.

    • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 11:50
      -1

      ugly

      • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 12:12

        I don't disagree. Not the most handsome horse.

  • Muzeeb on 23/06/2020 - 10:20

    You would be mad to bypass Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe. Don't worry about your badge reputation for a weekend and at least test drive them.

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 10:24

      I am a bit crazy ;-) Kia and Hyundai are not on top of my list, but will read reviews about them. Will test drive if happy. Thanks for your help.

  • netjock on 23/06/2020 - 10:45
    +1

    If you are going to let a learner driver and newly licenced I'd say Camry Hybrid. Cheap to run, insure and you won't care too much if it gets knocked about.

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 13:08

      Ok, will have a look. it is one of the cars I was more inclined to look at.

  • oscargamer on 23/06/2020 - 11:07
    -1

    Left of centre…..
    Peugeot 508 GT Sportswagon
    Very very handsome in the flesh

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 11:54
      +2

      Thanks. Have heard mixed reviews and not interested in Peugeot.

  • friedbanana on 23/06/2020 - 11:17
    +7

    Kia Stinger GT

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 11:56

      I was thinking no Kia or Hyundai, but it seems that they have picked up the game. Thanks for your suggestion.

  • Velt on 23/06/2020 - 11:53

    Kia Stinger
    Skoda Superb

    Wildcard: Peugeot 508

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 11:55

      Skoda is a nice car. Any experience with the same? How did it drive?

      • Velt on 23/06/2020 - 11:55
        +1

        Don't have one myself but have heard good things from many commenters.

        • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 11:56

          Ok, thanks. I have heard good things myself about Skoda.

  • yayrobots on 23/06/2020 - 12:05
    +1

    Mazda 6 petrol turbo (wagon or sedan).

    • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 13:09

      Thanks. also looking at Mazda Cx9. Added advantage of a 7 seater for parents to join us as well.

    • jacross on 24/06/2020 - 08:01
      +1

      Great suggestion, great car.

  • Mad Max on 23/06/2020 - 14:25
    +1

    Lexus IS IS300h F Sport Auto looks great.
    Good low k recent models for around $40k

    • Major Clod on 24/06/2020 - 09:00
      +1

      Top car (I just purchased a used IS350 on Monday). However, given the legroom requirements for the 6ft kiddos, OP would probably be better of with a GS.

    • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 11:56
      +1

      The front of these cars just look weird and the back tail lights look like they have been squeezed away. The whole car just doesn't flow well. I wouldn't spend that much on that alone

  • blutek on 23/06/2020 - 18:12

    It's unfortunate the plug-in Hybrid RAV4 hasn't been released yet (with total power 220kw, is expected quicker than WRX).

  • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 23/06/2020 - 20:10
    +12

    Thanks everyone. Got a 2020 Toyota Camry 2.5 Ascent Sport Hybrid CVT.

    No stock in most places.

    • [Deactivated] on 23/06/2020 - 21:33
      +4

      That was bloody quick! Smart move though. Enjoy :)

      • darkmattersunB6c0MV on 24/06/2020 - 08:11
        +1

        Thanks again for all your help.
        Yes, in the morning, I had no idea that I should buy a car, in the evening deal done.

        To be frank, I married my wife having met her for 15 min, without ever having seen her or her photograph before meeting her, and very happy after 19.5 yrs.

        This is just a car.🙂

        • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 08:25

          Pleasure mate, glad we could help out :)

          Glad you like your wife too! ;)

    • jedimaster on 24/06/2020 - 11:00
      +1

      The hybrid is really nice to drive on long trips. I used a rental to drive from sydney to melbourne and loved it.
      Got pretty good fuel efficiency of 5L/100Kms and decent power when needed.

      • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 11:59
        -1

        Looks hideous though imo

  • JET101101 on 24/06/2020 - 07:54

    X3 2019/2020?

  • jacross on 24/06/2020 - 07:59
    +2

    Sedans are great but SUVs are terrible. Bad handling, bad shape. A car designed for offroad purposes misused by most.

    Consider a wagon if you want that kind of storage. You can actually fit things into the back

    Ill make an exception for the Outback which is essentially a raised Liberty. Technically called an SUV but thats just marketing.

    • netjock on 24/06/2020 - 10:49
      +1

      Sedans are great but SUVs are terrible. Bad handling, bad shape. A car designed for offroad purposes misused by most.

      SUVs are used by most people for tanking. You know going in straight lines, scaring people because of bulk and not trying to avoid / evade an accident but rather staying safe by bulk.

      I have sat in back of RAV4s where people trying to do high speed through a round about, seriously wanted to puke and I have have a sports car (you know 60/40 split, RWD, rear engine).

      • jacross on 24/06/2020 - 12:01

        Ive never hated sitting in a vehicle as much as i hated sitting in a Rav4.

  • backupper1 on 24/06/2020 - 08:04
    -1

    Mercedes A200 sedan is on ‘special’ at present for approximately 57k. Same for C200 sport edition sedan & coupe at 68k to 70k. Both cars are lovely with nice interiors and a comfortable ride.

  • Bid Sniper on 24/06/2020 - 08:48

    Kia Stinger GT, Subaru Outback premium.

    Also seen Lexus UX hybrids go under $50k ex demo. Nice luxo SUV

  • MrBillions on 24/06/2020 - 09:05

    My Mechanic told me Toyota is the cheapest to run and service and also most reliable. In general Japanese only when it comes to cars.

  • TailsK on 24/06/2020 - 09:16
    +1

    I'd also recommend a wagon. You might want to look at the VW Passat Wagon. I have a 206TSI, but they don't seem to be available to buy anymore (or maybe just right now). There is a 140TSI model, depending how much power you want. Good features and heaps of storage. :)

    Service costs might be something to consider but it would be under you budget right now. Might be worth asking a dealer about the 206TSI model, if you want the extra power.

  • Thinkscape on 24/06/2020 - 09:22

    Seriously, just get a Model 3 already. If you want some objective info about it (without the usual ozb salt) there's a great community in the "Model 3 Australia" FB group that will help you with any pre- and post-purchase questions.

    If you have a house, and PV (or planning to install), then Model 3 is a no-brainer (charge at home, drive for free, powered by the sun, zero emissions)

    Bought mine last year, it has spoiled me so much that I can't drive anything else - as in, there's a reason why the brand has highest satisfaction rating from owners.

    • [Deactivated] on 24/06/2020 - 17:33

      If you want some objective info about it (without the usual ozb salt) there's a great community in the "Model 3 Australia" FB group

      Oh yeah cause a Tesla Model 3 community is very likely to give 'objective info' haha.

  • striker5950 on 24/06/2020 - 09:46
    +1

    -low km's rs3 sedan (im not the one to recommends germans but this car speaks to my soul) probably the best performace bargain outside of a GTR, but with the beenfit of 4 doors and more daily-able
    -kia stinger GT (7 years warranty) beautiful car, can be etuned for more power with a few simple bolt ons. looks like a grandd coupe means it works like a hatch, so great looks with a open hatch style design for lot of space.

    i would say model 3 performance but your budget is not 110k
    there are many more cars but i will not list them as they get beaten out by the two i mentioned above in price performance luxury bang for buck.

    • boostpak on 24/06/2020 - 12:02

      I don't think he's going for performance or looks, he ended up with a soulless camry lol

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