Best Value Car for under 20K

I'm currently in the market for something that's reliable, new and cheap.
I've no preference for brand as of yet, but I assume Japan/Korean/Thailand vehicles are the way to go in this price range.

Edit:
No size requirement, as I only need it as a daily vehicle.
Would need to be Automatic, as my partner may need to drive it.

Comments

  • +9

    Size requirement?

    What need does it have?

    Have you seen this piece of string? Yeah about that

    • I tend to drive on motorways, so the smallest engine would probably be a 1.5 litre.

      • +7

        Ok did you know that micro/small cars come with a 1.5L? So do SUVs. Also engine size in litres means nothing.

        So we still don't know what purpose the car will have, in order to recommend anything to you.

        So help us out here, if you want help in return.

        • +1

          Well I don't want the car running at 3000+ RPM on the highway, hence my desire of a higher displacement engine. I am aware that gearing ratios and added forced induction however can allow a small displacement vehicle to run similarly to a higher displacement vehicle at speeds greater than 100km/h. The purpose of the car is a daily A-B car. The car just needs to hold myself, but having more than 1 seat is ideal. I was just looking at opinions of available cars and their experiences.

        • +14

          @MustResistPurchase:
          1.5L is not a higher displacement engine in anyone's definition unless you're looking at motorcycles!

        • +1

          @MustResistPurchase:

          I am aware that gearing ratios and added forced induction however can allow a small displacement vehicle to run similarly to a higher displacement vehicle at speeds greater than 100km/h.

          Actually gearing ratios, the number of gears, and forced induction have an effect at any speed. To draw a line at 1.5L is just ignorant of modern car design. Do you want to specify a specific weight as well, because without that the engine size is meaningless.


          Value differs between people, our perceptions of value vary. I'll give you 3 examples to your question by 3 different people with different definitions of value:

          1) new/demo small-medium car - because it's new, has warranty etc
          2) 10yo Hyundai Getz etc - about 1/4 of the budget yet still gets you from A-B. 1.6L engine (which falls within your guidelines). Leaves $15k for other stuff
          3) Older Commodore/Landcruiser etc - look at all that space you're getting, all that car!

          So there's no point asking what others find best value, and there's no point asking with a very small set of parameters.

          Work out what you want, not someone else.

        • @scubacoles:
          Higher than a 1.0L at least.

        • @Spackbace:
          1) new/demo small-medium car - because it's new, has warranty etc

          That's what I'm looking at it seems, don't think you can buy anything new other than small/medium at this price point.

        • +1

          @MustResistPurchase:

          Again, I know of a brand new, 1.0L car that weighs about a tonne that would drive better than a 1.8L

          It just happens to be turbocharged.

        • @MustResistPurchase:

          Of course you can buy new cars that fit the requirements for under 20k.

        • @Spackbace:
          So what would you recommend?

        • @MustResistPurchase:

          I'd recommend you go look at some cars yourself and see what you like/don't like.

        • +24

          @MustResistPurchase: My recommendation would be to not be so rude to a guy that is trying to help. Spackbace is more qualified than most on here to help you find a car and has spent more time, than most would, trying to help you and all you have given are the most vague answers.

          Anyone can suggest a vehicle, there are literally hundreds of choices, but unless someone can narrow down what you actually "want" and "need", every other recommendation is useless. I can say "Toyota Yaris" and you go out and buy it and hate the living shit out of it because it's too small, to slow, not enough room. Well, if you told me you wanted something fast, roomy and bigger, I would have suggested something else. There is more to matching a car to a person than… "find me a small car under $20k…

          My recommendation, buy the smallest, cheapest car you can buy, cause I would have told you to stick it up your arse after that last comment… and bigger cars hurt more upon insertion…

        • +2

          @pegaxs:
          I need a car, I don't specifically "want" anything. Hence why I left it quite vague. I would prefer new, warranty and reliability. I've had my fun in terms of cars, so I'm after reliability and cheap. I know those two don't go together so I was after opinions and experiences. It seemed like Spackbace could only ask questions than provide any options.

          Maybe I should of posted the question:
          "What cars have you bought for 20k or less and how was your experience?"

        • +17

          @MustResistPurchase: The guy sells cars for a living. It's his job to match people to the right car. His knowledge on what the market offers is outstanding and was trying to help you out. He didn't even try to sell you on the makes he sells. Just don't take his offer on two tone paint. :D

          And if you posted the suggested question, you would have gotten answers more along the lines of what you were after. Or, if you were more descriptive in your initial post, half those questions would have been redundant.

        • +3

          OP should get Mazda Rx7 or 8 since it has a 1.3L engine :)

          I'll go back under the bridge now

        • +2

          @Spackbace: looks like OP just wants people to do the thinking for him ;D

        • +1

          @Spackbace:

          balenoturbo

          ihaveone

        • +1

          @Danta:

          Bingo :)

          And that engine is going in the new Swift GLX :)

        • @tomleonhart: but isn't that the point of starting threads with minimal detail? They simply don't care enough about the details, they just want it done.

          Spacebucks is a great dude with great patience, but I can't really fault OP for being lazy. Just that OP is impatient.

      • +2

        I reckon you have no idea what you want. A mazda 3 would be your best bet, You are wanting fuel economy, engine capacity is irrelevant.

        • Yes, this. /thread.

  • +7

    Hyundai i30 2014 model - 2nd Hand - $14,000 - 40,000km

    • Superb and plenty of modern features
    • Do you happen to have one of these cars? Any issues to look out for when buying used?

      • I know someone who bought a new i30 about 9 months ago for $20k. Seems good so far. Base model includes reversing camera and sensors.

      • +1

        I've got a 2012 i30 diesel and it is amazing. With mixed use (highway/city), I get under 6L/100km. Mine's just about to tick over 245000K (lot's of rural highway driving) and doesn't miss a beat - smooth idle, no engine clatter whatsoever. They are so cheap to run/maintain and the turbo diesel has plenty of power for a 1.6L. It's surprisingly zippy. AMA.

        • How's the warranty been? Any issues with the dealership?

        • +1

          @MustResistPurchase: There was one recall with the brake light switch, done by the dealer in 20 minutes. Other than that, the only thing I've replaced are consumables like filters, brake pads and tyres. There's a reason they've won best small car under $35K 6 times.

        • @thebargainhunter:
          Sounds like a great car. Is yours the DSG Auto or Manual? I had a fiesta a few years back and it had issues with the DSG.

        • +1

          @MustResistPurchase: Mine's the 6sp manual, but the auto box is also very smooth - I've driven plenty as hire cars when interstate.

      • G'day

        I find the I30 fit all the requirement i need it

        Voted Top car by many reviewers in 2014,15
        Fuel Efficient - There an Economical Button (ECO)
        Large back booth
        Large space for back seater
        The 2014 model has lot of function that compatible for smart phone like bluetooth
        Stirring the car feel comfortable, there is a SMOOTH, NORMAL AND SPORT mode
        Car servicing will be cheap given korean and japanese component is easy to buy and handle
        Cheap insurance
        Full tank cost around $50 for 520km
        Very responsive in term of brakes and fuel
        

        I would advice you to find a 2nd hand car on Carsales.com.au, i got mine for $14,000 from a dealer for a 2014 model

        Test drive it, i got the dealer to loosen the petrol pedal before I bought it.

        I find the pedal a bit hard to press when i test drive i. I think it depend on the servicing of the car

        Go for 2014 model or later…..

        Good Luck!!!

        • +1

          Damn that is a good price
          My i30 2014 Trophy with 10000km cost me $17k and that was the cheapest available in Sydney at that time (this year)

  • Thailand ? What brand is it ? lol

    • +2

      Some Honda's come out of Thailand. Probably others too.

      • +2

        add ford fiesta too that list from thailand

        • +2

          I have a Fiesta S with the 3 cylinder, 1.0L engine and it's a little beast! It goes like much bigger cars, hasn't had a single problem, and gives larger cars a run for their money when you put your foot down. The engine has won a best engine award for a few years.

        • +2

          @Flying Ace: never underestimate the power of a 3 cylinder, 1.0L engine - I had a diahatsu charade many years ago and it was awesome.

        • +1

          @altomic: that was my first car…many years ago.

    • a lot of cars.

    • Thailand ? What brand is it ? lol

      Thai Rung Union Car

    • -1

      Due to quality issues, all my cars Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Subaru are Japanese brands and 100% Made in Japan :)

      • You have 4 cars?

        • +1

          I know right, 4 isn't nearly enough is it.

        • Nah, I mean all the my cars I ever owned, at the moment, it's Subaru, WRX 2015, love it :)

    • tuk tuk

  • +1

    2008 camry

    • Haha. Was in a 08 cam recently. Doesn't feel much different to the new ones.

      Although as it is getting to the 10yr mark you probably have higher chance of needing maintenance even though Toyota are very reliable Long term.

      • I think the older ones are a safer bet for reliability. You know for sure which models have been generally reliable by then.

        Buy one with full service history demonstrating minimal problems needing fixing. However, budget for replacement of the timing belt at 10 yrs age for cars with a belt.

        A model can be a lemon or the individual car can be a lemon. With a little time you can be assured you aren't getting something continually problematic.

  • +5

    Suzuki Swift

    • I like the look, seating and quality of it as well.

      • -3

        "I like the look", says every swift owners. I'd get a Jazz instead of spending 16k on a lemon. It's a more practical car really. I was so surprised how much things I could put in the car when I helped my mate move homes. Basically moved everything in the jazz, except the fridge. He didn't even need my trailer LOL.

        • How on earth is a Swift a 'lemon'? Strong resale, zero recalls, well regarded by anyone that owns/drives one. Just because it doesn't have the storage room you require doesn't make it a' lemon'.

        • @Spackbace: Okay it's a pineapple.

        • I dont own it BTW. Jazz had issues as well. search online. Look wise it is better than jazz and cheaper.
          If you moved everything in Jazz, it is a good thing. But does that make Swift a bad car??

  • +1

    Brand new Mitsubishi Lancer, in the market since forever, mechanics are pretty reliable, easy to maintain and run. We picked up a GSR around November last year as a daily driver for the Mrs.
    I am not a fan of the CVT autos (on all cars/brands) but know plenty who don't mind them.

    • How is the Lancer on fuel? Also, I like that it has 5 years warranty but have you had any issues with the dealership?

      • Pretty good, but I have to ask the Mrs for exact details. No problem with the dealership. I also own a Mitsi PC Challenger which I bought new from Cricks Auto (Tweed). The Lancer was bought from Motorama (QLD for both).

  • +4

    Ex-Demo Toyota Aurion

  • +13

    Kia Cerato(new)

    • +4

      $19900, auto, 7 year warranty. Can't go wrong.

      • +3

        Agree with this, if you just want best bang for your buck, you can't go past Kia's 7 year warranty. I think the Rios are about 15K

        • +2

          I know picantes are around the 15k mark rios are 17ish but I was probably going with the max car for budget theory. ;)

        • +2

          @Test Tickles:

          Cerato's seem to be sub $18k on the road…….

        • @oscargamer: I got mine a couple of years ago for 16990 as it was 7 months 'old' new stock.

      • Yeah the KIAs are hard to beat. I picked up a 1yr old KIA Cerato Turbo Koup recently for $21,000. Magnificent car, 150kw, goes like the clapper half the price of anything equivalent and have 7yr warranty and 7yr capped priced servicing.

    • +1

      But OP could have 4x Getz's for that money, isn't that better value for money?

      • +1

        OP also wants new, hard to find a new Getz, let alone 4

  • You looking for new car or used car?
    with your 20k, you can buy any base model Japanese/Korean/Thai made car brand new. All new cars are fairly reliable and good value these days.
    Its more up to you, which brand, features or look that you want, test drive them all and pick one :)

  • +5

    http://imgur.com/a/Lydnj

    cerato s AV. purchased on 2nd week of April.

    • +1

      Holy shit! $1995 stealer delivery charge. That is near on criminal… How do they justify that??

    • Good deal. 2016 or 2017 build?

      • +1

        march 2017

  • +4

    Torana

  • +4

    Kia Cerato

    • +3

      Especially one that's about 2 years old, just after the 7 year warranty kicked in. Fantastic option.

    • +1

      Best car for OP's price range.

  • +1

    Brand new 2016 plate mazda 2. 18k..

    • Thats a pretty good price. When did you buy it?

      • +1

        I didnt buy it. We just test drove. We were looking for a car but we decided we will get the new i30 because its bigger. The mazda 2 is an amazing car. The dealership had 6 maxx 2s for 18k when we were there. Very tempted

        • I like i30 too and looking for one for my wife. Did you buy a new one and how much did you pay if you don't mind me asking?

    • made in thailand, pay $3-5k more u can get a mazda 3 maxx made in Japan.

  • +3
    1. New/Demo Mazda 2 genki
    2. 1 year old Mazda 3 Maxx
  • +1

    Older model Camry or dare I say a Falcon?
    Parents falcon (4L) runs at about 1500rpm at 100km on the freeway and my 1.6 T runs at about 2500rpm on the freeway

  • HOlden commodore evoke

    Size/Power/ Cheap to maintain and relaible

    Pick it up from Manheim or Pickles

    • -1

      troll??, since when did holden make reliable cars?

  • My friend just discussed with me his favorite new arrival car i.e 2017 Chevrolet Cruze. Why dont you look at its features.

    • +3

      Chevrolet…? You realise we're in Australia right?

    • +2

      The Cruze is a lemon, has been for quite some time. I have no idea why people still buy them.

  • +4

    please have a a look at http://www.howsafeisyourcar.com.au/ before making your final decision.

    safety is not the first thing people generally think about but it is the first thing they regret not looking into once something goes wrong.

    I encourage you to compare the cars you select and opt for the safest option within your budget.

    Used Car Safety Rating is more accurate than ANCAP rating so I would suggest you check that too.

    This will be your daily drive!!

  • I'll throw my hat in for a Cerato as well. Brilliant thing.

    Although I've also got a diesel Sorento SUV, and it actually gets marginally better mileage :)

    Given Kia and Hyundai are sister brands, the reliability/performance/parts are quite commonly shared between similar models. From my research, the Hyundai equivalent for each body style commanded an approx 10% premium in price, but only matched by modest luxury extras for the price gap.

    I've heard good things about Mazdas and Mitzubishis, but never owned them for contributing experience.

  • +4

    Why does it need to be new? This is ozbargain. New equals massive depreciation!

  • +3

    There clearly is only one answer.

    Falcon on gas.

    /end thread

    • +2

      Ex AU Falcon taxi… on gas

      drops mic

      • hahahaaaaaaa

      • +3

        Ex AU Falcon taxi… on gas…from a police auction.

        The Noble Prize for Bargaining goes to…

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