Ask an expert

I am planning to buy a used car from Wellington NZ, but I am confused about the quality of cars. I have two buy options. "Honda Fit" or "Toyota Ractis". Year model 2006.
Which one is good for long and daily drive?.
I am not looking for fuel efficiency and the appearance. Looking for only driving comfort, power and low maintenance cost.
I searched and compared in Google, but I am not quite satisfied from user the reviews.
I hope you can help me.

Thank You

Hi there,
My pick of the two would have to be the Ractis. As long as it is the 4 speed automatic and not a cvt.
The Honda Fit have a cvt transmission which is known for expensive problems.
The Ractis 2005-2010 appear to have a standard 4 speed auto, but it is always good to double check, as you can never be too sure from Japan,
The Ractis comes with a 1300 and 1500 cc engine, i would get the 1500 which will give you more power. However these are still only a small engine.

Thanks to your valuable reply.

I been to couple of car dealers yesterday. They showed six models (two from Toyota, two from Mazda, one from Nissan and one from Mitsubishi). I am giving the details here. All are Hatchback. The price range of all cars are (NZ$6000 - NZ$8000).

1. 2006 Ractis (ODO 70,000) - 1500CC
2. 2005 Toyota Corolla Runx (ODO 58,000) - 1800CC
3. 2006 Mazda Axela 3 (ODO 69,000) - 2000CC
4. 2005 Nissan Tidda (ODO 67,000) - 1500CC
5. 2005 Mitsubishi Colt Plus (ODO 66,000) - 1500CC
6. 2007 Mazda Demio (ODO 60,000) - but 1300CC only

Which one is best for me? My wife like to drive too. This is for a final decision, so I will go with your reply.

Hi there, No pressure LOL
Our pick would be the Mazda Axela, followed by the Toyota Runx Great choices, good transmissions.
Good luck :-)

Thanks Cade.

Finally I have booked Toyota Runx 2005.

Can you tell me about 2004 Toyota Raum? My friend plan to buy this version.

Hi there.
These cars are built on the Toyota Vitz platform. The engine and transmission combination
seem pretty reliable. I think it would be a pretty good buy.
Just be sure to get a Pre Purchase inspection to make sure the mechanicals are ok.

Hi dear,
The sales team said "All of our vehicles are AA appraised & fully serviced and come with AA odometer certification".
Is this means the Pre Purchase inspection finished?

Hi there,
These are all good checks, but they don't take the place of a Pre Purchase Inspection.
The PPI will check all the mechanicals, engine, driveline operation/condition. A/C temperature, battery charge, ect. Always good to get one carried out before purchase, as it will give a more detailed insight into the car and some negotiation with the seller.