Car buyers' guide: Time to dump the Swede

Alfa Romeo 159: a good reputation for reliability. Photo / Supplied

The dilemma:
Here's a reader with a real dilemma. Chris writes: "I own a Saab and now they no longer exist parts are getting very expensive. So it's time to dump the Swede.

"I am looking for a medium-large car 2007 or newer with a maximum of 60,000km; less is better. I would like a European car with lots of spec. I was thinking perhaps an Alfa 159 or Volkswagen Passat."

But: "My family keeps trying to convince me that a Suzuki Kizashi, Honda Accord Euro or a Subaru Legacy might be more my thing."

Here's a true heart-and-head dilemma. There's huge appeal in the ambience and style of an Alfa, Passat or one of the other Euros that meet the mandate. But then the head says stick with a good Japanese model, forget the diverting European flair.

The budget:
About $25,000

The shortlist:
Alfa Romeo 159
Gorgeous and one of the best family-sized Alfas. People usually link Alfas with exciting petrol engines, but the 159 and the 2.4 litre turbodiesel were made for each other and are a popular combination in New Zealand. The 159 has built a generally good reputation for reliability. A detailed inspection by an Alfa-savvy mechanic will be a must, but a 159 that passes muster could present an attractive buying proposition. A diesel we found for $27,000 has 59,000km on the clock, automatic shift and lots of equipment.
From $27,000

Chrysler 300C
People love or hate the ostentatious Chrysler, in a similar way to the svelte Alfa. As with the Alfa, a low mileage 300C pushes the budget north, but there are possibilities among the V6-engined 2007s. The 300C is lavishly equipped, handles better than you'd think and won't be outrageously expensive to fuel with the V6.
From $28,000

Honda Accord Euro
Finally, a car Chris can comfortably afford without stinting on mileage or year. Honda's Euro really is one of the more European of the Japanese cars for dynamics, although styling is more Eastern than Western. There's good buying among Accord Euros, like a New Zealand-new 2007 model with 45,000km, the excellent tiptronic-type automatic transmission along with the usual equipment goodies and an asking price of $24,000.
From $20,000

Driven recommends
Head says Accord Euro. Heart says Alfa. The perverse little voice in the back of the head says the Chrysler. You'll have to make the final call, Chris. And do check the Passat before deciding. Oh, and so sorry about the Saab; the marque deserved much better.