Ask an expert

Back to Buying or selling

Forum Buying or selling Is Toyota Runx 1.8L CVT? How to choose from these three cars? What is the difference on fuel cost for 1.5L and 1.8L?


Keren1992

Hi. I am a girl which does not drive a lot. I drive less than 8,000km for a year.I normally just drive in the cities but did go long way sometimes. I want a useful hatchback (around 1.5L or 1.8L Japanese car) with less problem.

I have a test drive on the following three cars.
1. 2004 Toyota Runx 1.5L Automatic 34, 000km mileage for $7600
2. 2006 Toyota Allex 1.8L Automatic 70,000km for $7700
3. 2004 Toyota Runx 1.8L Automatic 57,000km for $8400

It is from a car dealer. I have a friend use to work in this shop. So they said they give me good prices.
I had a test driving.They are good.They all have AA apraised reports and said above average condition considering the year and mileage.

However, I am still wondering whether I should get a pre purchase
inspection.But at first, I should now which one should I get the inspection.

1. I found the 1.5L and 1.8L have different gearboxs. 1.5L is normal straight one. 1.8L is like the normal CVT ones?
Does the 1.8L have CVT transmission? I am not very sure only from the looking of gear box. My mechanic told me to stay away from CVT. So the 1.8L is not a good choice? (Are there any other hatchback with around 1.8L have no CVT?)

2. From the above three cars? Which one will you choose according to your experience?

3. How much is the difference on cost of fuel for 1.5L and 1.8L?

4. What is the difference between AA apraised report and pre purchase inspection report? I noticed one checks about 40 points another one is 100+. However, do I really need an inspection report for $149 for one alrerady have an Appraised report one?

4. Is CVT covered in the AA mechanic insurance?

Thanks,

Keren

Anon

Hi Karen,
According to the information I have found. I can't see that any of these cars have a cvt transmission. A cvt operates like a one speed and you won't necessarily feel any gear changes. All 3 cars seem like a good choice to me. the 1500 would be very economical around town, with the 1800 better suited for travel. I think the 1500 may be more suitable if you spend a lot of time on short trips. Comes down to personal preference really.
I dont think there would be too much difference in fuel economy, maybe $5 extra per 100km's?.
I would definately get a Pre Purchase inspection, as this is a more involved inspection and tells you a lot more about the vehicle in order to make an informed decision.
As the smaller appraisal is a dealer only inspection and not recommended to buy the car from this alone.
In the MBI Handbook of items covered it states automatic transmission casing and all internal componants.

Keren1992

Thank you so much, Cade.
I would prfer a 1.8L, if they all non-CVT.
1.2006 Toyota Allex 1.8L Automatic 70,000km for $7700
2. 2004 Toyota Runx 1.8L Automatic 57,000km for $8400

Which one would you recommand?
What is the differences between Allex and Runx?

Anon

I would ask if the car has a cvt just to make sure. I think there is little difference between these cars, maybe just the badges. The 2006 would be my pick, as it is newer and the km's are still quite low. I don't see the need to pay an extra $700 for one years worth of km's less, and a car 2 yrs older.

Keren1992

Thank you so much!
They are not CVT I confirmed.
I buy the Allex yesterday. It is very good!
Thanks, expert!

Anon

My pleasure