Ask an expert

I am considering the following: Suzuki S Cross, sx4, Yaris 1.5, Hyundai i30. I would like motor size 1.5 / 1.6 no older than 2011. Under 50,000km. Mostly around town. I do low mileage. Any help would be appreciated on what would be best.

Can you please advise what kind of budget you have and are you looking for a medium or small size hatchback?

The vehicles you mention are all worth considering but depending on your budget there are others worth considering too.

If I was to buy the Suzuki S Cross new my top price would be $27000. I had thought between $15000 and $20000 for second hand under 50000km preferable 2012 or newer.
In your opinion if the Suzuki is worth $27000 now what would it be worth in say a years time under 50000km. Is there a rule of thumb how much a car devalues in a year? I would be interested in any other brands. I dont want a really small car 1.5cc at least.
Thanks

The vehicle is worth what someone is willing to pay for it but at a guess it could be worth around $17,500 in average condition and around $19,500 in good condition after a year with low mileage. Thereafter it should depreciate at a slower rate.

You should consider ex-demo Suzuki S Cross models as an alternative if new isn't your preference.

You should take the Suzuki S Cross, SX4 and Swift as well as the Mazda3 (2.0L) for a test drive and see which one is best suited to your lifestyle and drive comfort. Most small engines these days perform really well as new technology has improved fuel efficiency and performance.

I would struggle to have so much tied up in a brand new car, so it may be worth my while to wait a year for a second hand S Cross, I will add the Mazda 3 to my list. and as you say drive all 3. How economic is the Mazda 3 compared to Suzuki s cross and swift? I think I am on the right track?
Thanks for your help

The 2014 S Cross 1.6L (2WD) claims to do around 5.8L/100km whereas the 2014 Mazda3 2.0L petrol is claimed to do around 5.7L/100km in a combined cycle.