Which Car? Rough Time to Buy - Budget $60,000

Mintee on 26/09/2023 - 15:20
Last edited 27/09/2023 - 09:20 by 1 other user

Hi,

Keen to hear peoples thoughts on what car to buy at the moment, between wait times, technologies (electric), the shift to SUV's I feel it's a really odd time to be in the need of a car. I've always driven 'hot hatches', I've found that the balance of these provide the practicality and enjoyment that suit my lifestyle and needs. 85% of the time it's just me in the car, to and from work (that's not much highways) 10% of the time its +1 passenger and 5% of the time it's + 3 passengers.

I'm a little conscious that world is progressing to electric/hybrid powertrains but I personally feel that the options that exist in Australia are not worthy of going fully electric/PHEV yet, the lack of charging, excessive price tags (for range/performance) makes me hesitant to make the switch, even then, it appears a lot of this tech is going into larger cars, which I really don't have the need for.

As odd as this sounds; I find myself juggling between a Civic LX e:HEV vs a WRX rs manual; I KNOW they're two completely different types of cars and I think its a head/heart battle. I feel the rex lacks a bit on the tech/feature side, when you look at things like larger sunroof, digital dash, front sensors, rear air vents, but you do get the performance and high petrol use. On the other hand, the Civic is quite frugal, but dont think i'll have much enjoyment from its whiny CVT, its quite advance it its tech things like Honda Connect (Maybe gimmicky?)

First and foremost my key priorities are reliability and safety, I feel the Australian market has really killed off any decent options in the warm / hot hatch space, I feel items such as a Focus ST, Megane RS are completely gone, US models such as a Civic SI just dont exist….

I have test drove a i30n (manual), and personally felt that the vehicle was just 'always on', even when adjusting settings to be off and the harsh plastics just made it feel cheap. I did drive a 22 Focus ST and loved it, and a tad spewy (still till this day, that Ford culled my order) I felt this was a good balance between 'performance' and maturity.

Keen to hear peoples thoughts.
Ideally id like:

  • Manual (Don't really feel they exist much anymore)
  • New preferably.
  • 150-200KW
  • Sunroof
  • Tech, I like 'tech'.

Budget is approx. $60k which I feel is more than reasonable, although these days, it seems like a crap budget.

I feel I'd like to stay away from any Euro product as I don't feel the reliability is there.

Edit:
I just wanted to edit to assist in clarifying some of the questions raised in the comments section:

  • I have done my research…. a tad insulted with the comments that mention I haven't, hence why I provided the two comparisons
    Focus range culled from Australia - https://www.drive.com.au/news/ford-focus-st-and-fiesta-st-ax…
    Megane production finished - https://www.carscoops.com/2022/07/renault-megane-reportedly-… (yes… you can technically still get one for now, but not for long, also euro)
  • I do approx 10k - 15k kms per year
  • On the point of warranty my opinion, on a new car, even though there is warranty, trips to dealerships should NOT be required.
  • I've been very very privileged, I acknowledge that, and have been able to swap my cars regularly in the past and also drive various products through work. Dual Clutch transmissions any from any manufacturer, at low speeds frankly dont work well (at least ive found), I'm actually really disappointed that traditional torque converters are disappearing and can only be found in some manufacturers. Anywhooo Im ranting a little, Im now not in the same position and need this car to last at least 5-10 years.
  • The reason why I'm insistent on manual, is is I feel the engagement, as well as you being in control, what I mean by this is, there's one route in particular (near my home) where, in a traditional auto its 2>3>4>5(sometimes), as they're designed for efficiency within seconds im back in 2nd. The car doesn't know I'm about to slow again! I'm finding time and time again, autos cant make the prediction well…. (paddles dont help) - But I also acknowledge that in higher spec models, manuals dont exist (https://www.whichcar.com.au/advice/every-new-manual-you-can-…)
  • Why new? I just feel like buying used, id be going backwards…. I've had a new car in 2015, 18 and 22….. to go back at year a get a used car to me, doesn't make sense.
    -On the elect front…… I'm not going to comment tooo much here, but this is personal opinion and circumstances (yes, maybe a little bit lack of research, and fear, i.e fires, replacement batteries, charging etc) and take it as you will.. and selfish as this sounds, I don't care about emissions as a factor when purchasing

Hopefully this helps apologies for poor English

Automotive

Comments

  • haroldmac on 26/09/2023 - 15:31

    Megane RS or Focus ST - what do you mean by 'completely gone'?

    I recently sold my 2018 RS280 and miss it. It was a great car that blended in when it wanted to, didn't blend in when I wanted it not to, but also gave me a smile each and every time I drove it.

    • Mintee on 26/09/2023 - 16:15
      +2

      Gone as in, no longer being produced new for the Australian Market?

        • dcep on 26/09/2023 - 20:12
          +1

          Still can get new Megane RS and Focus ST in Australia ?

  • MS Paint on 26/09/2023 - 15:33
    +7

    Manual (Dont really feel they exist much anymore)

    "Feel" indicates to me you have done zero research and handballing all the work to ozbargain. You mentioned feel 10 times in your post. Nice.

    • Mintee on 26/09/2023 - 16:09
      +2

      …. Theres a dozen cars that are offered in manuals https://www.whichcar.com.au/advice/every-new-manual-you-can-… - let alone that fit the requirement

    • pegaxs on 26/09/2023 - 19:19
      +9

      handballing all the work to ozbargain.

      OzGPT

    • HeWhoKnows on 27/09/2023 - 07:38
      -2

      Absolutely correct Muzeeb !

      Cars are very much a personal choice.
      Other people give adviCe based on thier OWN priorities and circumstances
      Not those of OB.

      OP should take both cars for a test drive and read the online reviews for these cars.
      Then make a decision.

    • rehan770 on 28/09/2023 - 01:51

      I would recommend a Spyder as mentioned you usually drives by yourself

    • ChatCPT on 28/09/2023 - 09:51

      You mentioned feel 10 times in your post. Nice.

      12

    • Ten on 29/09/2023 - 09:43

      Have you noticed how common this is? All I do now is hear people saying "I feel" or "I mean" when starting sentences and It's driving me crazy.

    • whorishmouth on 29/09/2023 - 16:41

      My wife starts arguments with "I feel like….."
      She's a bitch.

  • bobbified on 26/09/2023 - 15:35
    +2

    …the harsh plastics just made it feel cheap.

    If that's one of the key factors, a euro car with fix this. Once you get used to a nice euro interior, the jap/kor cars will always feel cheap. I know you said you like to stay away euro because of reliability issues, but these days they come with 5 year warranties and I actually think an Audi S3 would probably be perfect for you.

    Edit: Just saw your post re your dramas with VW. lol

  • sharka on 26/09/2023 - 15:37
    +6

    Honda Civic LX e:HEV:

    Pros:
    Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid powertrain can offer significant savings in fuel costs, especially in city driving conditions.
    Tech Features: As you mentioned, Honda has introduced various tech advancements in recent models, like the Honda Connect.
    Reliability: Honda has a strong reputation for building reliable cars.
    Safety: Honda Sensing safety suite is one of the comprehensive in the market.

    Cons:
    Performance: While the hybrid powertrain provides decent acceleration, it might not be as engaging as a traditional hot hatch.
    CVT: Some drivers aren't fans of the CVT's characteristics, such as the drone during acceleration.

    Subaru WRX rs manual:
    Pros:
    Performance: With its turbocharged engine, AWD, and manual transmission, the WRX is engaging to drive.
    Manual Transmission: Given your preference for a manual, the WRX stands out in this regard.
    Heritage: The WRX has a longstanding reputation in the rally and performance community.

    Cons:
    Fuel Efficiency: The WRX, especially if driven enthusiastically, will consume more fuel.
    Missing Tech: As you pointed out, missing out on some tech features like a larger sunroof, digital dash, etc.

    Other Options:
    Mazda3 Turbo: While not having a manual option, the Mazda3 Turbo offers a good balance of performance, tech, and build quality. It might not have the raw excitement of a traditional hot hatch, but it's mature and refined.

    Toyota GR Yaris: This is a performance-oriented model with a manual transmission. It's smaller than the other options but offers engaging driving dynamics.

    Kia Cerato GT: Offers a good balance of performance, tech, and value for money. While not in the hot hatch segment, it provides an engaging drive with plenty of features.

    Recommendations:
    Given your priorities of reliability, safety, and the desire for a manual transmission, the WRX stands out. However, the Honda Civic will give you better fuel efficiency, newer tech, and a more modern interior.

    If you loved the Focus ST, it might be worth considering waiting or searching for another available option. It does seem to fit your desires very well.

    Given the budget and preference for tech and performance, and given the hesitancy towards European brands due to reliability concerns, Japanese and Korean brands would be your best bet.

    • Mintee on 26/09/2023 - 16:18

      Mazda3 Turbo - Not in Aus is it :(

      Toyota GR Yaris - Hmmmm never considered this, its on the smaller side thats for sure

      Kia Cerato GT - Reallllllllyyyyy hesitant about DSG's… at low speeds, ive had nothing but bad experience, but appreciate the clear written out description.

      • spackbace on 26/09/2023 - 16:31
        +2

        Toyota GR Yaris - Hmmmm never considered this, its on the smaller side thats for sure

        Some cheap examples on the market currently

        Could always order the Corolla GR, buy a used Yaris GR, and offload the Yaris once the Corolla arrives?

      • ass3ts on 27/09/2023 - 22:12

        Have you tried Porsche 911 Turbo's PDK? It should change your mind about dual clutches. If not, many higher-end Euro models are switching back to torque converter automatics now, mostly ZF.

        • rave75 on 28/09/2023 - 17:04

          Porsche PDK is miles ahead of other DSGs

      • Preet on 28/09/2023 - 09:04

        Toyota GR Yaris - Hmmmm never considered this, its on the smaller side thats for sure

        I collected my GR Corolla a few weeks ago, it was a 9 month order wait. I'm in love with it! Would recommend for consideration. Perhaps have a test drive?

      • Viper8 on 28/09/2023 - 11:13

        I've got a GT with some light mods, previously had a manual 2nd gen WRX. The DCT is honestly one of the best parts of the car. Granted I'm never driving in bumper to bumper stop start peak hour traffic. But in and out of the garage and carparks even my wife has no troubles despite also having a throttle controller. The only negative is at least for me it does some weird stuff if you drive it during the 60s warm up high idle. But after that the DCT is great. The GT is hands down the best value warm hatch/ sedan, and also the fastest and sportiest on the market. With a boost controller it's getting close to hot hatch territory - the stock setup breathes really well, allowing some pretty big gains to be had.

      • Franc-T on 29/09/2023 - 19:34

        We have a GT Cerato and its DSG is 100% fine.

        Though I do think the ride is a bit harsh and noisy for my tastes though it handles nicely. (I drive a stinger and the Cerato is rougher than its sport mode)

  • deme on 26/09/2023 - 15:50
    +3

    Manual (Dont really feel they exist much anymore)

    lmao you haven't even looked have you

  • LanceVance on 26/09/2023 - 15:55

    I know you've excluded Euro's and have a preference for something new but consider a low km Golf Mk7.5, whether it be an R or GTI these are pretty reliable especially in a manual apart from the water pump which for this car is considered just routine maintenance. They're a pretty fantastic driving experience, very nice interior, easily upgradeable, much better looking than the new ones and haven't fully switched to almost solely touchscreen interior.

    However, i30N's are fantastic, I personally found the interior to be fine and I grew up around BMW's.

    • Kangal on 28/09/2023 - 01:26

      Why the down votes?

      A properly looked after Golf-R is a phenomenal option. Although it is hard to overlook the upcoming Toyota Corolla GR. But there's a price to pay for that.

  • spackbace on 26/09/2023 - 15:59
    +1

    Gr Corolla or Yaris?

  • Gunnar on 26/09/2023 - 16:01
    +3

    Does it have to be new? And a hatch?

    If so, I’ve heard great things about a Kia pro-ceed GT

    One from left field IS350 F Sport. I had a WRX many years ago and never in a million years thought I’d own a Lexus until I drove one. Good long distance car, okay not a manual. They’re a bit doughy through a corner BUT you have to grab it by the scruff of the neck and drive it aggressively in a twisty road and it will be enjoyable. Not a 10/10ths car but good up to 7-8/10ths

    Awesome fun to troll ute bros who try to traffic light GP you in your grandpa car. Sorry Mr Jacked up Hilux / Ranger, I didn’t mean to put 5 car lengths on you.

    Ive had mine, since new, for 10 years (and have something way more fun in the garage for when I really want to be a child). It’s a car that really got under my skin though, especially after driving it half way across Australia. It loves long distances. Thankfully it has never missed a beat and is a Toyota meaning parts are easy to source

    • JIMB0 on 27/09/2023 - 07:47

      The hybrid V6 is even more of a sleeper especially the grey import Toyota version. Looks similar to a Camry yet is faster than most cars on the road.

    • azero on 27/09/2023 - 11:24

      One more vote for Lexus, put the transmission to manual and hold on to low gears - it becomes a completely different car and the 2GR V6 is smooth as

    • Smol Cat on 28/09/2023 - 15:56
      +1

      IS350 F Sport

      It is pretty obviously sports/GT oriented and the aggressive design shows it. I doubt anyone would confuse it for a grandpa car?

  • 7ekn00 on 26/09/2023 - 16:06

    GR Yaris, GR Corolla or GR Camry ;)

    I would go the GR Corolla, it's a hot hatch with all the mod cons!

    • Mintee on 26/09/2023 - 16:22

      GR Corolla has a loooonnnngggg wait list, and as a tad out of my budget :(

      • spackbace on 26/09/2023 - 16:29
        +4

        Could be worth it in the long run tho, might be one of the last manual turbo cars built

  • JimB on 26/09/2023 - 16:22
    +3

    I wouldn't consider a WRX today.. too soft.

    Looks like you're after a sedan. For me, I'd get the i30 N Sedan (which is a different car from the hatch) in a manual.

    Other options
    - Golf GTI DSG $55,490 Driveaway which is pretty good value considering the market today.
    - BRZ in a manual (cheaper than the equivalent GR86).
    - and if you could stump up another $12,600, I'd get the Civic Type R. This will be a future classic. One of the best driver's cars out there regardless of costs.

  • dylanando on 26/09/2023 - 16:26
    -1

    what do yo basis the lack of electric infrastructure on?

    • JimB on 26/09/2023 - 16:39
      +1

      Lack of number of charging stations on a road trip during peak holiday periods.

      https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11580989/Tesla-owne…

      It's fine if you have 2 cars and drive your EV primarily in the city/around home.

      • ronafios on 30/09/2023 - 05:53

        Infrastructure has nearly doubled since that article and growing faster than the sales curve, not including nearly every EV owner installing home chargers. The last few school holidays have been fine in Australia. Charge times are reducing as batteries can take larger inputs (Ioniq 6 can go from 10% to 80% in 18 mins), and range is increasing with a number of cars hitting more than 500km now. Massive investment in public charging, one of the big tectonic shifts of this decade. Ultimately, nearly everyone will have a home charger and petrol stations will seem massively inconvenient. "You used to have to leave home to fill your car with an explosive liquid? How quaint!"

        For now, most EV owners are doing fine on the highway. 2 weeks ago I drove up the east coast 2500km round trip and didn't experience queuing anywhere, plenty of capacity every stop.

  • Drakesy on 26/09/2023 - 16:28

    MG X-Power - 3.7s 0-100 and will be more reliable than anything you've put forward - plus 385km should do your daily commutes easily with it able to be charged in as little as 35 minutes.

    • Mintee on 26/09/2023 - 17:12
      +1

      Im a little hesitant on the MG Brand, Reliability, Customer Support, Warranty and Quality? Happy to be proved wrong - https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-reviews/mg-4-xpower-review an interesting read thats for sure.

      • Drakesy on 26/09/2023 - 17:30
        +3

        As long as it isn't an ICE you should be alright. That's where they're let down.

        The EV's seem to be holding up pretty well, a 7 year warranty would be enough reassurance.

        • Sinnerator on 27/09/2023 - 08:36

          warranty only means something if the dealer honours them

          • Drakesy on 27/09/2023 - 09:49
            +2

            @Sinnerator: Do you have evidence that MG isn't honouring it?

    • ronafios on 30/09/2023 - 05:46

      The MG is likely one of the best value performance cars on the market right now. EVs are inherently mechanically simpler and expected to be typically more reliable than ICE cars. If you can salary package, the FBT benefits on EVs are worth considering, especially as ICE are expected to start experiencing sharp devaluation soon as more EVs with better specs and performance come to market.

      MG performance is insane for the price… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF9ksaXfUGg

  • freefall101 on 26/09/2023 - 16:56
    +14

    I'm a little conscious that world is progressing to electric/hybrid powertrains but I personally feel that the options that exist in Australia are not worthy of going fully electric/PHEV yet, the lack of charging, excessive price tags (for range/performance) makes me hesitant to make the switch, even then, it appears a lot of this tech is going into larger cars, which I really don't have the need for.

    Have you driven many electric cars? I'm surprised you think it's excessive price for the performance as performance is one of the big selling points. Instant torque is fun. Range anxiety turns out to not really be a problem when 85% of your driving is to/from work as well, you'll also get the joy of never having to go to a petrol station.

    Plus, look into a novated lease FBT free. It's the biggest middle class tax break there is short of popping out half a dozen kids (and unlike kids, it's cheap to run).

    I'd really consider going and driving an Ioniq 5/Kia EV6 and seeing what you think of it. Faster 0-100 than the i30N and the low centre of gravity makes cornering great.

  • dstar012 on 26/09/2023 - 16:59
    +13

    Didn't read that but Tesla Model 3

    • Tigerstu on 29/09/2023 - 06:46
      +1

      This. If you like tech, Tesla is tech on wheels

  • sumyungguy on 26/09/2023 - 17:25
    +2

    Cupra Leon VZ, but you'll need to get over your dislike of European. If you really want manual: i20 N. If I had $60K to allocate to transportation: Porsche Cayman (pre-owned).

  • Euphemistic on 26/09/2023 - 18:07
    +1

    Sounds like you just need to buy a car that suits you. One that you drive (not automated up the wazoo), and can enjoy driving.

    Go drive ‘em then pick your fav.

  • plmko on 26/09/2023 - 18:30
    -1

    For a commuter if you have $50k, save your money till 2024 to get the Toyota C-HR GRS. The new gen 2.0L hybrid is a beauty. I've driven the 2023 Prius and that is the perfect car, new gen C-HR is just a reskin.

    I wouldn't get pure EV unless you intend on driving it till it's dead. I sold mine and the resell will hurt for those unaware due to massive supply from both new and off-lease.

    • Mintee on 26/09/2023 - 18:38

      I thought about this and i know its a shit excuse but the old lady has one on order so there's already gonna be one in the house and don't want two.

      • plmko on 26/09/2023 - 18:44
        +1

        It's going to be great car but you are right I'd do the same.

    • spackbace on 26/09/2023 - 23:24
      +1

      I wouldn't say the 2.0L hybrid will be a sporty car…

  • Nugs on 26/09/2023 - 19:14
    +1

    No mention of how many kms you do per year?
    .

    • Mintee on 26/09/2023 - 22:13

      Oh. Not much about 10k-12k

  • pegaxs on 26/09/2023 - 19:21
    +2

    Half a Hyundai Ionic 5N…

  • dcep on 26/09/2023 - 20:14

    https://www.ford.com.au/showroom/future-vehicle/mustang/

    4 pot ecoboost manual , should fit your budget.

  • nubzy on 26/09/2023 - 20:28
    -1

    With that budget, Peugeot 508 GT Sportwagon or Citroen C5X would be my picks

  • Thinkscape on 27/09/2023 - 07:31
    +1

    It’s 2023 mate. Buying a fossil is throwing money out of the window, and also unnecessary emissions.

    You are roughly in range of a model 3. It will check all your boxes and if you have solar you effectively drive for free. Borrow one for weekend from https://www.evee.com.au/ go for a road trip. You won’t regret it.

    • Franc-T on 29/09/2023 - 19:39

      You are roughly in range of a model 3. It will check all your boxes and if you have solar you effectively drive for free. Borrow one for weekend from https://www.evee.com.au/ go for a road trip. You won’t regret it.

      If you have solar you are only driving for free if you dont drive during the day. For someone who WFH and have 10KW solar I considered an electric myself but didnt because I couldnt justify spending the money on the model I wanted (not a Tesla)

      • ronafios on 30/09/2023 - 06:12

        I don't work from home but typically only have to charge on the weekend. It's pretty easy to find sunlight hours even with weekend commutes etc. factored in. Our local electricity provider also offers 200 hours of free EV charging at home per year even if you don't have solar.

  • JIMB0 on 27/09/2023 - 07:43
    +5

    Get a V8 while you still can.

    • Nugs on 27/09/2023 - 07:50
      +2

      Absolutely, anyone who enjoys cars should at some stage
      .

      • Franc-T on 29/09/2023 - 19:39

        Thats the only thing I miss with the Stinger. The mustang sounds fantastic.

        • markga on 30/09/2023 - 10:24

          Same as me Franc got the stinger now keeping it a couple of more years, but want to experience a V8 again before they go the way of the dodo.

    • ssmac on 28/09/2023 - 12:22

      A few years ago, I purchased a V8, based soley on the knowldge that it wont be an option for long. In retrospect, I wish I had made the decision earlier. It's the best car choice I've made so far.

  • dp1 on 27/09/2023 - 08:16
    +3

    I've been a hot hatch fan too. I drive a Cupra Born EV and I would never go back to manual or ICE. Being VW built it's very Golf gti-like with a proper euro 'feel' and I totally get it with the comparison to Japanese /Korean in terms of just not being as nice to touch.
    $59990 plus on-roads, minus whatever state rebates you can get means it cost me $1500 more than getting an ICE Golf gti. Sadly not eligible for novated lease on a technicality with my employer, or it would be a no-brainer.

    • kerfuffle on 27/09/2023 - 08:43
      +1

      Nice car

    • Matt P on 29/09/2023 - 22:49

      Curious as to the technicality. I don't see any issues with them unless your employer has a long standing issue with Spain

      • dp1 on 30/09/2023 - 08:26

        Employment contract technicality rather than the car being Spanish. I was on a casual contract during the initial probationary period and my employer excludes casuals from accessing novated leases (other salary packaging benefits are still allowed). Car arrived 14 weeks before my contract changed from casual to permanent. I'll definitely be doing NL on the next EV.

  • margiela on 27/09/2023 - 09:37
    +3

    A used Kia Stinger GT should tick all your boxes, except for the manual requirement. It has an above average interior and the driving experience is excellent, if a little muted given its size. However, you will be grateful for that in the daily commute or on long drives.

    Don't sleep on the i30N sedan. Brilliant car all around and much better as the DCT than manual.

    • Roe Jogan on 29/09/2023 - 13:50

      i said tesla base but second option is the i30 (elantra) N sedan (recently updated)

    • Franc-T on 29/09/2023 - 19:40

      I love my Stinger GT.

      Its not a hot hatch though.

  • 2esc on 27/09/2023 - 10:30
    +2

    Do you really need a new car? Whats wrong with your current car?

  • Melb Deals on 27/09/2023 - 12:01
    +3

    Owner of an i30n Sedan Manual.
    Not sure what you mean about hard plastics. Soft plastics in the i30n which is much nicer that the std i30.
    Good amount of tech and adjustments for the car to suit your liking. Gearbox shits really nice and in N mode has a great exhaust sound. Was looking at the WRX but found the i30N to be superior in tech and performance.
    Heated and ventilated seats, heater stearing wheel, nice sun roof, android auto and apple carplay as standard with wireless charging pad.
    Warranty includes track usage if your interested in track days to have some fun. Definitely prefer the manual over the DCT having test driven the DCT for a day.
    Fits in your price point with change for a few mods if you want that bit extra power.
    Fount the Yarris GR a bit small and wasn't a fan of the Civic Type R interior and higher price point.
    Always personal preference so just my 2c.

    • Speckled Jim on 27/09/2023 - 12:48
      +7

      Gearbox shits really nice

      Well that's a relief!

    • diss on 30/09/2023 - 09:19

      I second this as an owner (DCT). The interior is significantly nicer in the sedan than the hatch. I absolutely love this car.

  • AryaTheExplorer on 27/09/2023 - 12:24
    +1

    If you can stretch your budget a bit, the new Civic type R is amazing. I got one in April and absolutely love it. If you keep it under 3k rpm, you can hardly tell it from a normal Civic. It has great adaptive cruise so it's pretty chill to drive daily. if you rev it beyond 3k rpm, it's super communicative and the manual gearbox is the best I've ever driven. The community is great too.
    GR Yaris is great but it's quite small and interior is super dated. i30N's auto gearbox is amazing, but ride is quite compromised and the manual gearbox isnt good compared to how good the auto is, great car and I nearly bought one if not for the terrible dealer experrience. I've owned a Stinger in the past, great in a straight line and cruising but it's not exactly a sportscar.
    I've test driven a WRX and know someone who owns one, I think you'll be disappointed in the long term as a sportscar.
    I'd avoid the new 86/BRZ due to engine issues.
    Used GTI and LWII/LZ Focus ST are great options for way less money. I had a Focus ST in the past and it's one car I miss the most and a big reason why I got a Type R.
    I'm totally for buying new cars because of the car bubble, it makes much more sense to me. Used car prices are insane. Imagine buying a 5yo car for 85% of the original rrp. Used car prices are falling though, so you should be able to get something reasonable soon.

    • Mintee on 27/09/2023 - 12:41

      I think at 72k its just tooo much! But appreciate the insight. Keen to hear why you think the disappointment on the rex?

      Also keen to hear what type insurance is costing, i guess thats also a factor long term

      As odd as it sounds, im getting 1.2kpa for rex (1.3k excess) but 1.8k for a civic e:hev (with 900 excess) the yearly cost savings on services goes out the door with insurance lol

      I feel like im realllllllyyyyy in stuggle town, just nothing 'in the middle' but at the same time maybe im being too picky, or is there this giant hole in the market

      • AryaTheExplorer on 27/09/2023 - 13:13
        +1

        Yeah unfortunately the price isn't great but even at this price there is big demand. It did mean less wait time and less flippers vs whats happening with the GR Corolla. I've called 15 dealers and spoke to many people, I've heard from dealers reselling to their own stuff, to only selling to whoever has made the dealer the most profit. Im happy I got the CTR in the end cus it's a better car.

        I think depreciation and resell value would mean a lot more than initial purchase price if you are planning to sell it in a few years and try other things like most car people would. CTRs would likely have better resell value (just look at fk8 prices).

        Insurance wise, its 1.5k with AAMI because I dont drive it much during the week, but if I use it daily itll be around 2-2.5k cus Im under 30. Im afraid insurance is the catch with most drivers/fun cars. I remember my Focus ST cost around 3k a year when its worth under 20k.

        I recall mustangs are around 60k but no longer on sale because there's a new model coming, that's probably the hole lol.

        • Mintee on 27/09/2023 - 15:42

          So went test drove the rex… yeahhhh that was beyond disappointing

  • sprocketoctopus on 27/09/2023 - 17:52
    +3

    Just a little left field…

    1. $50k - on a 'Classic', what ever floats your boat..Weekends/Sunny Days. If it's over 25/30 Years old cheaper club reg (depends on state)
    2. $10k - Corolla for the commute
  • solidussnake on 27/09/2023 - 20:05

    GR Yaris 1.6ltr 3 cyl making 200kw and manual would be fun as !!

  • Herbse on 27/09/2023 - 22:23

    i20n comes in manual, a real pocket rocket and you'll have spare change

    i30 N Sedan if you need more space.

    • R4 on 17/10/2023 - 14:33

      I've had an I20N for about a week - wow, what a car. A fantastic drive. The steering feedback when cornering hard is awesome and the rev matching button is voodoo magic. One of the best cars I've owned and at under $40k, a total bargain.

  • AustriaBargain on 28/09/2023 - 01:12
    +1

    Can you get a preowned Kia Stinger for 60k yet? It's kind of a budget performance car, very budget, but it may well be the best car you've ever owned. Top Gear were happy to be paid to rate it positively.

  • flametornado on 28/09/2023 - 07:59
    +2

    Mg4 xpower. Electric hot hatch, should be in aus by the end of the year, estimated price is less than 60k drive away. 0-100 in 3.8 seconds.

    I'm picking up my mg4 essence 64 Friday, it's pretty nice inside (very clearly not a luxury car, but it's nice to be in). Rear view is not great, but it is what it is.

    Has decent range and solid fast charge speed for any long trips.

    Alternatively the essence 64 a still pretty good value at 50k.

  • kaleidoscope on 28/09/2023 - 08:40

    Since you say you like hot hatches and max passengers is 3, go with either phev hatch (corolla hybrid ?) or ev such as model 3 or cupra born ($64k drive away)

  • Devastator0 on 28/09/2023 - 09:11
    +1

    I took ownership of a brand new i30N Premium (DCT) hatch a few weeks ago and it's been fantastic. I was originally tossing up between the Hatch & Sedan but I just really don't like the look of the Sedan (and I'm a Sedan guy) so I went the Hatch. Don't regret the choice for a second, absolutely one of the best cars I've owned.

  • NachoCheese on 28/09/2023 - 09:19
    +1

    Owner of 2022 DCT I30N hatch with sunroof. Bang for buck car, track ready out of the dealer except for those horrendous pzero stock tyres. It flies under the radar, not considered too much of a ‘boy-racer’ looking car. Fast enough, but also not stupid fast where you’ll lose your licence. Fits two baby seats at the back with adequate leg room in front. Puts a smile on my face every time I’m driving it, so that’s a win for me - except when fuel prices keeps rising.

    • Devastator0 on 28/09/2023 - 09:22
      +1

      100% them feels about the fuel prices mate. I've taken to borrowing my neighbor's Costco card so I can get the cheaper 98 lol

  • NoFingIdea on 28/09/2023 - 09:26
    +1

    GR Yaris/Corolla, end of thread :)
    Corolla would be ~$10k over your $60k budget though.

  • LoserScott on 28/09/2023 - 09:48

    Would buy 10 GPu and turn it into a business, and settle on a generic second hand car.

  • Crammed on 28/09/2023 - 09:57

    I was a hot hatch guy, with my last being the Astra VXR. I took delivery of a brand new Mazda 3 Astina.. best car I have ever owned. It's glorious. Sure, it lacks the power that I have come from, but it more than makes up for it in every single way. Plus, you'll save ~15k of your budget price.

    • Viper8 on 28/09/2023 - 14:52

      Astra VXR was more of a muscle hatch. Zero traction and poor handling. Too much torque for the chassis to handle.

      "Makes up for it in every single way", except grunt, brakes, suspension, tyres and exhaust. It's meant to be a cheaper A-class/ A3/ 1-series competitor, not anything remotely sporty. Sure it's a nice place to be (poor rear visibility and loud engine aside), but "every single way" is a real stretch.

    • spackbace on 28/09/2023 - 15:06
      +1

      Astra VXR

      Lol I remember driving the HSV Astra, way too much power/torque for the front wheels

  • jaimex2 on 28/09/2023 - 10:25

    Go check out ( and drive) the Ford Escape.

    It's basically a sleeper SUV that's massively overlooked. Everything awesome about the Focus ST but in SUV form.

    Stupid amount of tech, fast and you can throw it around corners.

    Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vJmoibCdm4

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