23 Feb 09
4. Vauxhall Astra
More fun to drive than you'd think, and more comfortable and refined, it might not be the most eye-catching or exciting-looking car in the class but the Astra is a sound choice. Sturdy and reliable, nicely-finished with good-quality materials, the Astra is well-engineered and solidly built.
Some of the more basic models do without side airbags and key items of equipment, but most are well kitted-out with all the necessaries. Though there are economical diesels - 1.7 CDTi 100 and 1.9 CDTi 120/150, or the 90bhp 1.3 CDTi (58.8mpg, 130g/km) - best-value versions are the 1.4 and 1.6 petrol models.
The Astra is competively-priced anyway, and Vauxhall dealers will be open to a bit of bargaining - especially in the run-up to the launch of the all-new model, which goes on sale next year.
Look for pre-registered cars on independent forecourts, and a good £2500-£3000 off original list price - some brokers are offering £5000 off on selected brand-new versions.
5. Volkswagen Golf
Rationally and objectively, the Golf is no better than many of its cheaper rivals, but admit it: badge-snobbery makes it the most desirable car in this sector. It's the smartest option, without being flash (for that, go to BMW 1-Series/Audi A3/Alfa 147 territory).
There are deals to be done, though; look away from the top-dog 2.0 TDI 140 diesel, the well-publicised 1.9 TDI Bluemotion (62.8mpg, but a hefty asking price), the GTI and the turbocharged 1.4 FSI, and Volkswagen dealers are keen to shift the less popular variants. Independent agents are offering a good 10% off the new Mk6 models before they've even arrived on British forecourts.
Entry-level 1.4s are not quick, but you'll find lightly-used 2008-registered examples (Mk5) for less than £10,000; likewise the non-Bluemotion 1.9 TDI, which nonetheless returns 56.5mpg and fits into tax band C. Hey, it's still a Golf and it'll hold its value better than an Astra or a Focus.
