Shop around to move from sedan to SUV
Murray is a longtime Holden fan, having driven V6 Commodores for many years. He is, like many new-vehicle buyers, looking to move away from a sedan and get himself into a smaller and more versatile new SUV or five-door hatch.
“If possible I would like to stick with the brand that I have had a good overall experience with, although I don’t know much about their other models,” says Murray.
The budget $40,000
Nothing wrong with staying with a brand that’s treated you well over a long period, but it doesn’t hurt to have a look around at what else is on offer. More so if you intend to move into a different vehicle in terms of body and engine size.
You need to think carefully about this move for other reasons, too. You obviously like the Commodore for its size, power and no doubt its rear-wheel drive abilities. If you tow on a regular basis, for example, an alternative vehicle fitted with all-wheel drive should be a high priority.
Disposing of the Commodore is also something that you should consider carefully.
Most owners looking to sell, whether it be privately or by trade-in, have a habit of overvaluing their vehicles. They want top dollar while they don’t want to pay too much for the upgrade. Reality is, it doesn’t quite work that way most of the time.
Because sedans aren’t as popular as they once were, you may find selling privately won’t be that easy unless the price is set very realistically (probably considerably less than what you think it’s worth). Offering the vehicle as a trade-in will definitely gain you less but it may also allow for a little bit of negotiation and leverage if you’re purchasing a new vehicle. The biggest benefit of the trade-in is that it’s easy. Deal done, move on.
Holden Cruze SRi-V Hatch
The Cruze SRi-V hatch is fitted with a turbocharged 1.6-litre (132kW) engine and 6-speed auto with active select and sports mode. The turbo works on the theory of power only when required, rather than the more traditional V6 Commodore where power is available on tap across the entire driving range. This can negatively affect fuel economy, especially in city driving. Claimed combined fuel consumption is 7.9l/100km. Other features include 18-inch alloys, sports body kit, fog and daytime running lights, leather and heated seats, reverse camera, navigation plus a 6-speaker Mylink infotainment system. Worth noting: a compact spare is an option and replaces the standard tyre sealant kit.
Ford Mondeo Ambiente Hatch ($43,990)
Cross that loyalty line totally and check out the all-new Mondeo hatch. It’s another petrol power unit (2-litre, 149kW, 6-speed auto, 8.2l/100km, 17-inch alloys) fitted with a turbocharged engine (EcoBoost) with similar operating principles as the Cruze. Overall specifications levels are also similar. One added safety feature is the inflatable rear seatbelts. It exceeds the budget but definitely worth a look.
Subaru Forester 2.5i ($39,990)
One standalone and standout benefit of the Forester 2.5i (126kW, 8.1l/100km) is the symmetrical all-wheel drive system with the well-proven boxer engine design. Braked towing capacity is rated at 1500kg. Depending on where your journeys take you, the Forester may strike the right balance.