Family Car - Wagon - Suggestions and Pricing

em on 25/09/2018 - 10:36
Last edited 25/09/2018 - 12:00 by 1 other user

Having a baby (first) early next year and want to buy a safe car. Thinking of buying new only because we'd otherwise be buying near new (want it to be safe and have ISOFIX) and not sure that we'd save a lot of money buying second hand. Don't want anything too big - i.e. mid size rather than large.

We want a wagon (more room than a sedan, better to drive than an SUV).
Currently there aren't a lot of options:

Skoda Octavia for under $30,000
Ford Mondeo for closer to $40,000
Mazda 6 for hopefully around $33,000 (sport spec)
VW Golf $30,000 DA.

I don't really want to go European as I think ongoing costs will be higher (if for petrol, servicing, parts etc). My dad can do most stuff that needs doing. Don't trust that Skoda will be around for the long term, fewer sales means fewer parts around. I'm located in SA so fewer dealerships and wait times under warranty can be high.

Ford Mondeo is pretty old and hasn't been updated.

Really prefer the Mazda6 sport. The new version seems like a good deal and runs on 91. The reason I am going for sport is that it has all the safety features. Don't really care so much for other bells and whistles.

Conversely, could go second hand. There's not a lot of stock in SA, buying a car with <50,000km and 2012+ with safety features could end up costing similar. There are no Mazda6 or Mondeo wagons available in Adelaide. The Mazda6 sedans are all still going for around $25000 so it seems like it's not much more to get something new and at least a warranty plus no unknown damage.

Does anyone have any other suggestions? Would definitely prefer to keep spend around $30,000. I'm hoping that I could negotiate a Mazda6 wagon sport for ~$33,000 DA. Not sure if this is a total dream or not - does anyone have any experience in negotiating prices?

Should I be considering any other vehicles?

Poll Options

  • 102
    Mazda6
  • 56
    Octavia
  • 8
    Mondeo
  • 6
    Golf
  • 46
    Other
Automotive

Comments

        • carlJack on 26/09/2018 - 14:04

          Yes… thats probably right. I have got a 2011 Skoda Octavia with 7 speed DSG. It sometimes shudders in the lower gear. Apart from that no problems so far. Its been with me for 4 years now.

  • SoapyWooder on 25/09/2018 - 19:23

    mazda's automatic transmission is not as strong as toyota's.

    • dazeet on 26/09/2018 - 19:57

      Can you please cite any reliable source(s) to back this up?

  • Ninjassmileinthedark on 25/09/2018 - 19:44

    No one suggesting a Honda Odyssey? I don't have one but am considering it for our next car. Sliding rear doors for the win, particularly when trying to get kids out of a car seat or bassinet.

    • em on 25/09/2018 - 19:50
      +1

      If we knew we were going to have 3+ kids, then it'd definitely be on the list. Hard to know something like that before heading your first.

      • Ninjassmileinthedark on 25/09/2018 - 22:02

        Whatever you get, negotiate for roof racks and a tow ball. You will eventually need them for a growing family.

    • IMFrugl on 27/09/2018 - 14:47

      Loved our Odyssey when kids were growing up. Could shuttle them and friends to parties, movies, school etc. Very safe comfortable car. However, it's not in em's criteria (station wagon) and leans to the more expensive side.
      I like station wagons but it's popularity has declined over the years, favouring mini suvs. Suvs will give you much better visibility which is good if you're driving in congested conditions. Resale value will probably be better for suvs. suvs will be harder to wash and clean due to the height.

      • em on 27/09/2018 - 16:22

        If we knew we were going to have 3+ kids I'd definitely be looking at a people mover.

        SUVs are definitely the popular choice these days.

  • pitiek on 25/09/2018 - 19:59

    What's your current car OP? Do you and your partner have a car each now?

    • em on 25/09/2018 - 20:06

      '98 corolla and '09 corolla. Will get rid of 98 corolla. Partner will get the 09 corolla and baby and I will get the new car. Living in Adelaide public transport isn't great (outside of going to the city).

  • chumlee on 25/09/2018 - 20:14
    -1

    Just make sure it's a shaggin wagon

  • [Deactivated] on 25/09/2018 - 20:36
    +1

    Subaru Forester

  • drprox on 25/09/2018 - 20:49
    +2

    Easy one. Skoda Octavia

  • Boscojack on 25/09/2018 - 21:56
    +3

    We've got a Subaru Outback and it has been great. Don't have to climb up to get bub in at all and it has Heaps of room for our pram plus groceries and school bags. Added bonus is it fits 3 car seats across the back which we need since having our third (and last) last year (husband had to upgrade as there was no way we could get 3 seats in his SUV)

  • living4music on 25/09/2018 - 23:41

    At least try a small/medium SUV, you will see why on earth you want to get in a wagon. They are basically similar length, SUV is just a tad higher, and that makes in/out of the car so much easier especially with baby in capsule/seat. Try RAV4, CRV, Tucson… or similar.

    • em on 26/09/2018 - 06:55
      +1

      It's a fairly different proposition. While RAV4 at least comes with safety gear at the lowest spec, you get CVT and a 2.0 litre engine plus six month service intervals and a three year warranty. Honda's are notoriously more expensive to service and safety gear only comes on the higher spec models which means higher cost.

      If we do end up needing a people mover in the future I'd rather have a mazda6 as our second car than an SUV.

      boot space isn't necessarily much more than the 6 either.

    • ely on 26/09/2018 - 11:56

      I don't really get it; putting a kid in to a wagon is still easy, but bending over is apparently something people struggle with.

      Wife was keen on an SUV, I was desperate to head it off, luckily extremely strong reviews for the Skoda plus good test drives = no SUV for me.

      • dazeet on 26/09/2018 - 12:38

        My wife actually made the effort and arrangements to borrow someone else’s SUV - an original ML320 - as her wedding car 7-ish years ago. I know SUVs have gotten much better since then, but my best man who owned a SP20 at the time, could not help exclaiming throughout the drive re: its unresponsiveness to the pedals and other driver inputs etc. The ride became downright unpleasant as we would have no acceleration, then eventually a bigger than needed surge, so the best man then had to back off. Rinse and repeat. All this from a non-turbo petrol engine. And trust me, he is not a bad driver either…really smooth in his SP20!

        Over time, as my wife and I keep helping others with their vehicle purchases, and trying out countless vehicles ourselves along the way, and since owning a humble used Grandis ourselves, she only wants a people mover instead of a SUV now, no matter which SUV I suggest to her (just for fun - to see her reaction). She will have to wait a while, though - our Grandis has probably gotten a bit slower over the years (probably just needs a good freeway run to burn off the carbon buildup from short distance stop start driving), but is nowhere near expiring yet!

        • brendanm on 26/09/2018 - 13:05

          Sounds like your beat man should hand in his licence. In saying that, an ancient ml is nothing like modern vehicles.

  • schwinn on 25/09/2018 - 23:56

    I'm in SA too, a friend got a great price on Octavia RS from interstate (looking at you gunhops). Worth calling up interstate dealers to get a deal.

  • spackbace on 25/09/2018 - 23:58
    +4

    Used VF Commodore wagon, hands down.

    Room on the back seat for 3 adults/child seats. All the modern features. Remote start is bloody awesome in summer to cool the car down. Cheap servicing and reliable

    • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 26/09/2018 - 19:24
      +2

      Not sure why the downvotes. I agree! Cheap to run and service, heaps of space. Good used model will be 10k cheaper than the cars OP has mentioned.

      • taoz on 26/09/2018 - 20:21
        +2

        agree, having tried all other options mentioned. VF was best for space and use with kids.

    • abuch47 on 26/09/2018 - 19:42
      +2

      I recommend this as well, 5 star ANCAP for both previous models (VE, VF).

      SV6 obviously for efficiency on 91 over an SS. Parts are cheap, reliable cars with same amount of issues as everyone else and long engine life.

      big, comfy, nice to drive, can tow if needed, 2.1 ton.

      VF has ISO mounts for child seats.

      low compared to SUV which is a tradeoff of ease to get in vs bodyroll and handling.

      decent features, decent interior.

      new german made ZB commodore wagon would probably also fit in your budget well.

    • whorishmouth on 26/09/2018 - 20:37
      +1

      Agreed, just bought 2013 MY14 VF SV6 Wagon 96000 kms for $18k
      Love it.

      • lime111 on 27/09/2018 - 17:56
        +1

        We own the v6 Calais V sportswagon, 2014 I think. At the time great features for the price, should definitely be in your consideration list. When comparing Mazda and other wagons the boot space in the commodore is much better. Downsides on the commodores in my opinion are the A pillars, city driving economy (it's fine on open roads, not on sydney peak hour) and it's kinda wide. But big boot, room for kids, great internally, i'd put it on your list.

  • Marioedd on 26/09/2018 - 00:22

    Honda HRV could suit your needs, think its around 30k. Good size for kids and huge boot.

  • DBBROS on 26/09/2018 - 02:50
    +1

    Test drive both the Skoda and Mazda. I am happy with my octavia wagon 110 tsi

  • acoma on 26/09/2018 - 07:20
    +1

    What about a Skoda Superb? More space than an Octavia. I have a 2014 model and am very happy with it.

    • Skramit on 26/09/2018 - 07:26

      Great car but they are really big wagons. OP indicated he wants a medium size wagon.

  • [Deactivated] on 26/09/2018 - 07:37

    I agree with your decision to go new, not for everyone but comes with peace of mind.
    Wagons can be very useful, but have a number of downsides when compared to a Small\Mid SUV. at least take some SUV's for a spin, even a forester.
    The height of SUV's makes getting in and out easier, with bags and much better visibility while handling like a sedan. A perfect match for families.

    Suspension on the Mazda Sport and Touring can be a bit firm, Excellent for the driver and fun for a while, but on long family trips you may think back on this decision. Mazda transmission is not class leading, but everything with a Mazda is reliable. Just don't expect the European feel.

    There is a reason SUV's are so popular, at one point it was difficult to sell Wagons. The love of SUV's may also impact re-sale value.

    • blwnhr on 26/09/2018 - 09:49
      +2

      What are the downsides of a wagon compared to an SUV? Having lived with both an SUV and a wagon for a number of years I would choose the wagon every time.

      The height of an SUV means you need to lift everything (kids and cargo) higher to get them into the vehicle. And on no planet does an SUV handle like a sedan. I've driven a lot of them and they aren't a patch on a sedan or wagon, you can't out-engineer the physics of a high centre of gravity.

      The 2012 and earlier Mazda 6's were way too firm across the range with the sport models being the worst. They have made constant improvements in this regard with every facelift. The current GT on 19" wheels and low-profile tyres is significantly more comfortable than most SUV's with 55 or 60-series tyres. This is by virtue of the aforementioned physics, the suspension in an SUV has to be stiff to limit body roll and there is a reliance on high-profile tyres to take the edge off bumps.

      Regarding resale, dealers cannot keep Mazda 6 wagon's in stock, they are flying out the door, and the used market for them has been on fire for at least 4 years. They sell nearly instantly.

      Love him or hate him, Jeremy Clarkson put it well, an SUV is just a regular model on stilts but worse in almost every way. Comparing a 6 wagon to say a CX-5, the CX-5 has a smaller boot, more body roll and generally handles worse, tyres are more expensive and it uses more fuel. Some argue height gives more visibility but my wife hasn't noticed and we find it a lot easier to lift a pram and groceries into a low-lip wagon load area than an extra 200-300mm into an SUV.

      As an aside, we have Foresters and Outbacks as company cars. Some brand new, some older, all have an awful gearbox, terrible handling (compared to Mazda sedans/wagons and SUV's) and horrid hard plastic interiors. The problem with these hard plastics is they mark very easily leaving an irreparable "furry" edge and after a short period the interior looks a million years old. My CX-7 was a family car, we owned it for 8 years and the interior held up admirably.

      • waterbottled on 26/09/2018 - 16:49
        +1

        because for taller people it's easier to get into. plus, better visibility is real - half of the windscreen is literally blocked by the rearview mirror for me when i'm in a sedan - I literally have to duck my head down an uncomfortable angle to see what's going on on my front left.

      • [Deactivated] on 26/09/2018 - 23:25

        +1 for the Mazda. It all comes down to personal preference.
        SUV's are more likely to roll, however most reports show they are far safer in an actual crash.
        Wagons and Hatch's do not have good records for side impacts, despite their hardened rear chassis. Sedans have the clear advantage here.
        I have a 6 Sedan and can't fault it, but actually prefer my partners CX-3, although for the OP a CX-3 would be too small.

        I agree the 6 wagon handles well, but it's not really a traditional wagon, more like a sedan with an extended hatch back. Poor rear leg room, and limited cargo space comparable with a Camry, but still a very nice car. I still believe the ride is rough on the Sport (GT is okay but a bit low for the burbs)

      • fourofjacks on 27/09/2018 - 18:50

        Most families with kids getting suv's are not going to be driving them in a way that they will notice the difference in handling.

        And on no planet should people take Jeremy Clarkson's comments about cars seriously and apply them when considering a family suv for a new baby with ISOFIX.

        If you are using a CX-5 as SUV to compare visibility, boot space etc some things that you look for in a SUV, try something that isn't a compact SUV. CX-5 obviously isn't marketed towards people looking for high visibility or boot space.

  • CocaKoala on 26/09/2018 - 08:40
    -8

    LOL, what a list. The Mazda is the only sensible option from your list.

    • em on 26/09/2018 - 09:14

      Haha, plenty of people in here seem to disagree. But there is a lot of love for SUVs which I guess I should take on board and at least test drive a couple. Out of my list I definitely prefer the 6.

      • justabargainhunter on 26/09/2018 - 10:22

        Try Kia Sportage SI Premium - new model should be around $30k after bargaining. Plenty of tech including AEB for the price

  • jno on 26/09/2018 - 08:42
    +2

    RS6 haha

  • onevstheworld on 26/09/2018 - 08:54
    +1

    Volvo V60? I've got one and it's been good to me the last 5 years.

    • em on 26/09/2018 - 09:58
      +1

      Brand new for ~$30,000? Easy to get parts, cheap servicing?

      • living4music on 26/09/2018 - 13:45
        +1

        If you can afford used Volvo XC60, that would be superb, but they are not cheap to buy and maintain because they are premium vehicles and one of the safest on earth. I have a 7 seater people mover Mitsubishi Grandis and 7 seater SUV Volvo XC90. Also have had in the past many different sedan and wagons and convertible. Always prefer SUV because of the height for better vision and safety features as well as off road capabilities.

      • onevstheworld on 26/09/2018 - 14:32
        +1

        Not going to get brand new for $30k… starts at low 40's.

        If your main concern is safety, you can still get it second hand… Volvo's usually ahead of other makers in terms of safety for equivalent price. E.g. They had auto-braking as standard across their whole range when I got mine… at the time, I believe only Subaru had it standard in one or two of their premium models, every other make only had it as an extra.

        Running cost wise, it's going to be similar to other Euro makes… more expensive than Jap or Korean models.

        Parts wise, I doubt you'd have trouble… at least in Sydney, there are tons of them driving around.

  • blwnhr on 26/09/2018 - 09:34

    Huge +1 for the Mazda 6 wagon.

    We bought a Touring for my wife back in 2015 (ex-Mazda AU executive car with 2,000km) as we were trying to start a family. It has been bulletproof reliable, the build quality is fantastic and we cannot fault it.

    This year we decided to sell CX-7 as it was getting to high mileage. We have a 14-month-old and the SUV was useless compared to the 6 wagon. I looked at every wagon and sedan option under $50k and ended up with a 2018 Mazda 6 GT (new 2.5T engine) sedan. It is still the best car family car in the market.

    If you were on a budget buy one of the Australian made Camry's, they are cheap and bulletproof. The boot is large enough that it isn't a hindrance compared to the wagon.

    • em on 26/09/2018 - 09:53

      Yeah, my brother has a newish camry and it does seem pretty great. He used to work at a dealership actually, shoulda got on it while he was still there. Really would prefer the wagon - while maybe the boots are fairly comparable normally, being able to take the back seats down and then have 1500+l is really nice.

      • blwnhr on 26/09/2018 - 09:55

        The 6 sedan, and I'm pretty sure the Camry too, have 60/40 split fold rear seat, the only limitation then is the height, you still achieve the same length. (And in fact the Mazda 6 sedan is an 80mm longer wheelbase than the wagon so you gain even more room.)

      • GG57 on 26/09/2018 - 10:27

        Re folding down the back seat/s for extra space, don't forget that you will have a child seat in the back. You can obviously fold down part of that (60/40) but that means that equipment is next to your child, as long as you are comfortable with that.

        • em on 26/09/2018 - 11:09

          Yes - it's more about flexibility. Although people don't seem to take their car seats out these days.

  • blergmonkeys on 26/09/2018 - 10:10
    +1

    Vote for octavia.

    Get a used demo.

    Got my MY16.5 Octavia scout with tech pack and metallic paint with 3k km on it in mint condition with roof racks and tow bar for $34k. That's $12k off RRP! It was only 3 months old at the time I purchased it.

    It is easily the best car I've ever owned. It's super practical (600L boot space with seats up/1300L down, hooks/nooks/holders everywhere, easy to drive with some power if I need it), drives really well, has every tech gadget I could want (radar cruise, lane assist, cameras, 360' sensors, auto park, auto xenon adaptive lights, auto rain sensing wipers, etc). From what I can see, resale is still pretty solid on the car and I don't see myself having any issues in the future.

    Haven't had an issue now going on 1.5 years of ownership. Has capped price servicing averaging to ~$400/year. 5 year warranty standard. Having owned a subie (forester diesel) and a 6 wagon in the past, this is by far the bets car I've ever owned. I bought it on VAG financing which was 1% at the time.

    I think, because of brand image, Skoda has to be one of the best bargains for vehicles in Australia. Dealers seem very happy to negotiate.

    Edit - OP, if you're on a budget, have a look at the fabia wagon. For <$25k brand new, it is an awesome deal and likely the car we'll go to when the wife's yaris has had it.

    • em on 26/09/2018 - 11:21

      Yeah - the Fabia wagon is definitely something I've looked at before. The boot space is massive really, 505litres. The downside is that the smaller cars don't tend to be as safe. I've been looking at the used car safety ratings and small cars don't really cut it in accidents. The larger the car, the better the outcome usually. So I'm pretty much looking at budget v safety/size at the moment.

    • carlJack on 26/09/2018 - 13:25

      I was looking for one.Hard to find Octavia Scout at that price.

      • blergmonkeys on 26/09/2018 - 20:31

        They stopped selling them in Australia. My car was one of the last to make it here. Sad because it’s a great car!

  • dazeet on 26/09/2018 - 10:15

    Higher entry/exit/seating does not only mean SUVs. I feel that this is a lie pushed by many car makers/importers because they make more money making/importing only SUVs and marketing them as the only solution, when standard/raised 2WD/AWD/genuine 4WD wagons/people movers are arguably the even more optimal solutions for many people.

    OP. For your current circumstances and requirements, an occasional 7-seater like the Kia Rondo and the Toyota Prius V will probably be the best solution for you. Slightly higher entry/exit/seating (in most cases), plus (I feel) more boot volume than many 5-seat SUVs with the 3rd row folded, plus the availability of the 3rd row when you occasionally need it. For an external size that is barely, if any, longer than the less practical 5-seat SUVs.

    Fact is - a 1-box design simply can’t be beaten for space efficiency, compared with any other design.

    I still own a Mitsubishi Grandis. 166,000km+ and counting. That thing may not be fast, but it really rewards smooth driving, and can really maintain momentum around smooth and bumpy corners alike at will (especially my early version with the non-VR-X suspension and 16-inch alloys shod with Potenza RE003s). Very absorbent ride wth a very common (i.e. cheap) tyre size shared with base model Aussie-made vehicles. More clearance than most non-raised passenger vehicles for scratch-free driving in everything except maybe the most extreme of driveway entries/exits. The first-gen MIVEC engine is noisy when cold, but it is a faithful workhorse, and it just won’t quit! Everyone sacrifices a bit of leg room by sitting upright, in order to create a deeper boot space with the 3rd row up, than many full-size 7/8-seat people movers and 7-seat SUVs. Room to store things out of sight underneath the 3rd row too, when it is up. Or fold down half the 3rd row to create a “cubby hole” to keep groceries upright. All for an external length that is slightly shorter than a Camry! Adjustable air vents and lighting for all 3 rows, with separate rear air con controls at the roof over the second row that can also be turned on/off at the dash. Double-click the remote buttons for auto folding/unfolding of the side mirrors. NRMA’s child seat fitting guide suggests it may be the only vehicle that can fit 5 (slim?) child seats simultaneously without aftermarket modifications. Size-wise, it bridges the gap between the occasional 7-seaters and the too-big full-sized people movers. My friend also has one. He uses it to ferry his and other people’s kids in child seats, to and from church every week. He even took it from Sydney to Byron Bay and back with his 2 kids and the in-laws and all their luggage, and he is very happy with it - he certainly could not have done any of that in his prior vehicle (40-series Camry sedan)!

    Pity there is no up to date version of a Grandis-sized 1-box design with full ISOFIX etc. It seems car makers/importers just want to maintain the size gap for vehicles with more than 5 seats - too small, or too big - in order to force people to spend the big bucks upsizing from the smaller to the larger, when in fact a more full-time 7-seater sized in between like the Grandis, may in fact be the sweet spot for most people…if such a size is actually still available!

    TL;DR…
    OP, I encourage you to try a well-maintained used current shape Kia Rondo or a Toyota Prius V. Or an equivalent current shape Kia Carnival with 5-star ANCAP as the most futureproof solution. Because an up-to-date Grandis-sized 7-seater is not available from any car makers/importers in Australia (happy to be proven wrong on this!). The original Grandis is getting old, but one in good condition is still a cracking used car buy for most budgets, and I feel is unbeatable practicality and reliability for the asking prices these days.

    • em on 26/09/2018 - 11:08

      You know what I would love if it wasn't a citroen… https://www.citroen.com.au/new-cars/grand-c4-picasso/

      It's a good looking car, can do the part time 7 seating, great space and safety etc.

      The Kia Carnival is huge imo, would rather the Odyssey but I just don't need it. I actually quite like the Prius V but I think it's about to be updated (if we ever get the update) so I'd rather not buy 'old' tech. Especially for hybrid.

      The Kia Rondo - no. I don't think it's safe enough.

      • dazeet on 26/09/2018 - 14:11

        The GC4P is indeed tempting…until one considers the parts and servicing pricing and availability etc. not to mention depreciation…even if owner reviews are good, and even if insurance costs are low.

        The Carnival may seem huge…until your kids become really tall and/or numerous and/or have numerous tall friends/hobbies before they have their own vehicles, you want to save on Ikea etc. freight costs without embarrassing yourself at the parking lot, a decent family road trip, or even just to be able to drive your car directly to and from the airport etc. without worrying about roof pods, trailers, booking airport shuttles, manipulating the seats, packing light, 3D Tetris…and so on :) As I’ve said, probably the most futureproof option available right now.

        As for the current Odyssey, a part of me feels that they may update it in the near future with a detuned version of the Civic Type R engine, although they may still be developing an automatic gearbox in-house to cope with the outputs (or still testing one from a supplier), hence the delay. Or just stick the regular Civic’s/CR-V’s turbo drivetrain in there…

        The Prius V - which I feel is based on the 3rd gen Prius, is promising passive-safety-wise, as even the 2nd gen is 4-Star UCSR (previously 5-Star). In terms of it being old tech…would you consider something like the Outlander PHEV then (overlooking the fact that it is a SUV)? Even the superseded ZG/ZH was already 5-Star UCSR and a “Safer Pick”.

        The Rondo I feel is based on the YD Cerato - pity there is no USCR yet for either! Provided it is safe enough, it would have been awesome for them to make something like a Grand Rondo with stronger engines!

  • cillianbc on 26/09/2018 - 11:26

    I purchased a demo Skoda Octavia wagon 6 months ago and would recommend it highly. Fuel economy is amazing, in the 7 speed 1.4 anyway. Loads of boot space and just a joy to drive in general.

    I also have a 14 month old baby and have ample space for car seat and stroller and all the other stuff that gets thrown in

  • Yarra Warrior on 26/09/2018 - 11:35

    Hi OP,

    Just wondering if you wanna wait until December'18 for a brand new Ford Focus ST-Line "Wagon". Please have a look and see if this suits you.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bZuVnCqNws

    Some idea about this car:

    https://www.autoevolution.com/news/2019-ford-focus-st-wagon-…

    • dtc on 27/09/2018 - 19:04

      About time someone mentioned this since it’s pretty close to the perfect answer to the OPs requirements

      Maybe shows that not all commentators understand all that much about the car market. Just some random facts and prejudices…

  • xyron on 26/09/2018 - 12:26

    i dont like SUVs either but if i was in a similar position i'd be looking at a ford escape trend or titanium (with the 2.0l turbo 4 out of the focus ST). can get 1-2 year old examples in either trim level for under $30k.

  • cashless on 26/09/2018 - 13:14
    -1

    want to buy a safe car

    Safest car is one that doesn't go on the road

  • bobby1234 on 26/09/2018 - 13:19

    Nissan XTrail? currently advertised as drive away at 29k…. have an older one that is a nice option for initially kids but also putting oversized items in.

  • DiscoJango on 26/09/2018 - 16:50
    +2

    Definitely an RS6

  • Solosurf on 26/09/2018 - 16:59

    Mate I was in a similar position last year, got the new Camry for $29k @ 0% interest.Loaded with all safety features, Very spacious, capped price servicing and practical. The new model doesn't look like a fridge either.

    • em on 26/09/2018 - 17:08

      How does 0% interest work? Is it really nothing above the quoted price? And does it just mean that there is no real room to manoeuvre on price?

      • Solosurf on 26/09/2018 - 17:22

        No additional fee, you just pay the 29k by monthly installment. You don't have the bargaining power when you are purchasing with finance. I did manage to get additional dealer warranty on top of the 3 year manufacturer warranty .Overall happy with the purchase

  • Ghost47 on 26/09/2018 - 17:38

    I really would go slightly used if I were you. Just make sure the car is inspected closely. You lose something like 10% off the value of the car the moment you drive it off the lot, for a 30k car that's ~3k. It'll depend on whether or not having the peace of mind in driving a brand new car is worth it to you, but I don't think there's anything wrong with buying slightly used.

    Also, shopping towards the end of the month is supposed to be beneficial as dealers have monthly targets to hit, so you should have more bargaining power. Japanese would be the way I'd go too, cheaper running costs in the long term.

  • MoonlapseVertigo on 26/09/2018 - 18:02

    Subaru Outback - voted best car by new mums many many years in a row. Comfortable and stylish, safe as hell, even has air con vents for the back seat, keep the baby cool and all that

    Otherwise also consider a new Hyandai Santa Fe or Tucson. Honestly Hyandai have come miles ahead from years ago, the bells and whistles and safety are top notch on both newer models and the interiors are euro quality

    • DiscoJango on 27/09/2018 - 20:14

      the v6 outback goes hard too

  • soaringphoenix on 26/09/2018 - 18:10
    +2

    How much flexibility on the price do you have?

    As others have suggested, the Audi RS6 would blow the poll options out of the water.

    You can pick up a used low-km RS6 for a pretty reasonable price. This one looks like a tidy example: https://www.carsales.com.au/dealer/details/Audi-RS6-2015/OAG…

  • vulpesvulpes on 26/09/2018 - 18:26

    Mazda 6 is great. But keep your eyes peeled, would you consider something in the auctions from Melbourne? About a month ago I picked up a 60km 2014 mondeo LX wagon diesel (basic but does the job!) For $8050 total. Only things are a few minor scratches. 5 star ancap and has a decent amount of grunt.

    • This Guy on 26/09/2018 - 21:29

      There is no warranty with auctions. Hence dealers send lemons to auctions. If OP is asking for car advice on a bargain site then they do not have the knowledge to safely buy at action.

  • smuggler on 26/09/2018 - 18:48
    -1

    SUVs are gross. Get a new camry.

  • Brucet on 26/09/2018 - 19:15

    Among these cars >>>>> Skoda Octavia for under $30,000
    Ford Mondeo for closer to $40,000
    Mazda 6 for hopefully around $33,000 (sport spec)
    VW Golf $30,000 DA.
    Suggest you purchase Mazda 6.( Mazda better quality than those 3 .)

  • Brucet on 26/09/2018 - 19:16
    -1

    Toyota brand with good quality too.

    • em on 26/09/2018 - 19:18

      If the Camry came as a wagon I'd be all over it I reckon.

      • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 26/09/2018 - 19:27
        +1

        They do, if you're happy to compromise and get a 1992 model…

        • em on 26/09/2018 - 19:36

          Used to have a Ford laser wagon. I think that's one of the reasons I like wagons though.

      • dazeet on 26/09/2018 - 19:50

        How about lowering a Kluger? :) The drivetrain may even be LPG compatible! :D

      • twww on 26/09/2018 - 20:13
        +1

        If only the Corolla Fielder was available here.

  • ameyas7 on 26/09/2018 - 19:38

    Have you considered buying a demo version?

  • utsc on 26/09/2018 - 19:39

    You can buy a MY19 Mitsubishi Outlander LS Auto (Semi Leather 7 seats, Android Auto / Apple CarPlay) for $32,000 Drive Away with 7 year warranty

  • GMT on 26/09/2018 - 19:50

    Ford Focus ST-Line wagon is going on sale in December. Early reviews out of Europe are calling it a possible class leader. Drive away low to mid 30s. And Ford now has a 5 year warranty.

    • This Guy on 26/09/2018 - 21:25

      I am hearing late $30's to early $40's.

      Most 'reported' numbers are list prices, excluding on roads.

  • This Guy on 26/09/2018 - 21:23

    Nissan Xtrail ST Auto Petrol for $29k this month.

    Having a baby (first)

    You want reclining rear seats so you can get the baby seat perfect. You also want a load of room between the back of the seat and the back of the passenger seat so you can actually fit an adult in the front. Everything modern should have ISOFix

    We want a wagon (more room than a sedan, better to drive than an SUV).

    Wagons driving better than SUV's is a load of hog wash. SUV's generally have more vertical pressed chassis between the strut towers and a thicker D column linking them above. Still not quite as good as a sedan, but none of the cars you mentioned are a particularly good drive in a wagon anyway.

    I don't really want to go European

    Skoda is owned by VW group so it shouldn't be leaving Australia, however you have a point about Skoda dealerships in South Australia. You generally have to wait 3 months for a Skoda.

    Ford Mondeo

    Discontinued. Resale value is awful. Being replaced with the focus wagon.

    Really prefer the Mazda6 sport

    This is the car that you have said you want. Active safety is still a bit of a gimmick. Warranties can be hard to claim on.

    Conversely, could go second hand.

    $25,000 is plus transfers. You can get a brand new Xtrail with 5 year warranty and 5 years road side assist for under $30 this month, including transfers.

    Does anyone have any other suggestions?

    Nissan Xtrail ST Auto Petrol for $29k this month.
    Room of a large SUV in the body of a medium SUV while priced like a small SUV or medium wagon.

    Sportage and Koren built Tuson were my go to suggestions before the current Xtrail driveway campaign. Both have less body roll, so feel sportier, but both need a coat of plastic oil (like armor all or vinyl protector) to feel premium. Xtrail is the better in traffic or long drives as it's steering is light so it doesn't cause as much fatigue. They all have multi link, just like the Mazda 6 (except Euro Tuson's) so they all handle great.

    Take the Xtrail, Mazda6 Wagon (make sure you drive a wagon, not a sedan) and the Octavia for a test drive. Buy what you like best.

    • living4music on 26/09/2018 - 22:17

      Surprisingly Nissan x-Trail is the best seller of all medium SUVs in the world in the recent years. Because they are priced very well compared to other brands.

  • Blanke on 26/09/2018 - 22:01

    We were looking at same options last year and ended up getting a Holden Astra LS plus wagon - was around $22k new, great car with plenty of room for car seats (anchor points don't take up half the boot space), pram etc and good headroom in the backseat for getting kids in and out of seats. Cheap to run, great safety features, couldn't be happier with it!

  • [Deactivated] on 26/09/2018 - 22:04

    If handling is important to you, I’d recommend checking out the VW Tiguan. Very easy to drive with car like handling and dynamics. If you’re tall like me it’s so much easier putting babies in and out of baby seats in an SUV as you aren’t crouching and bending down.

  • Bammers on 26/09/2018 - 22:11

    Just received a brand new golf wagon for a work car… Thought it was going to be a nugget in comparison to the old Modeeo we had. Was quite surprised at the actual get up and go that it has and the gearbox is superb!

    As I don't pay for fuel I am rather lead footed and even with quite spirited driving i dials in between 7-9L per hundred and it is really good around corners too - sits really flat with no roll..

    All up really impressed with their entry level wagon coming from a turbo falcon and landcruiser prado.

  • aam on 26/09/2018 - 23:54

    Just bought the SKODA Karoq - "small/medium" SUV 2 days ago. Fantastic vision, ISOFIX, really great drive so far, huge boot & heaps of clever touches. Definitely recommend a test drive!

    • jason101 on 27/09/2018 - 07:14

      Please tell me the salesperson didn't sell ISOFIX as a feature?

      • aam on 27/09/2018 - 10:37

        Haha, not really! Our baby is an adult so it wasn't a feature we were looking for. I think it was mentioned in passing or I must have read about it in one of the reviews!

  • plague69 on 27/09/2018 - 08:33
    -2

    The following unless you're planning to change car again soon:

    Toyota Camry. There is a reason all taxis use it.

    Mazda is okay, only manual. Save yourself a world of hurt. Never Mazda automatic.

    You are right no EU cars. Service and parts are double.

    Also think insurance price. Camry would cheap if not the cheapest based on your list above.

    Good luck

    PS. Any specific reason why has to be brand new?

  • SupeNintendoChalmers on 27/09/2018 - 11:49
    +1

    Demo i40 Wagon in Turbo Diesel spec ~$28K

    https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/hyundai/i40/wagon-bodystyle…

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