So looking at downsizing if I change cars and I have a few options in my mind:

- 118d SE with the sports seats as the leg support is amazingly comfortable

- Mini Cooper D (Hatch)

- 120d SE Coupe

- Merc B class derv

- Maybe a dinky C class coupe if they do it still

So any comments on any of the above.

Plus points, down sides etc.

I'm going for diesel for two reasons, because I do about 20-30k a year and I prefer how they drive. I need something that can do better than 55mpg at 60mph ideally.

Has anyone actually got or driven any of them and if so are the suggested MPG even close to being achievable?

Any other sensible options at similar or preferably lower pricing. No a Fabia is not an option as it just feels cheap inside compared to the Octy II.

You have the new A3 coming out. I did see in the press a revised BMW 1 series being tested so not sure how long the exisitng will be for sale.

Golf?

Volvo c30?

The 1 series coupe looks very nice. I did see a white 1 series hatch the other day, with a black rear diffuser set up thingy - looked a hell of a lot better than it sounds! Very tasty.

Did I spy a bandwagon?

Is a 1-series actually much smaller than an Octavia? :rubchin:

Toyota Auris Diesel 180BHP :thumbup:

118d if you want to really hit the fuel figures..

but cost wise the revised 116ti (i think) will be a better bet when they put the 175hp cooper s engine in it... cheaper per litre fuel, drives like a diesel - (on boost from 1500rpm) and the fun of a revvy petrol when you want.. and it will do 45+mpg with stop start... not sure when its due out though...

118d if you want to really hit the fuel figures..

but cost wise the revised 116ti (i think) will be a better bet when they put the 175hp cooper s engine in it... cheaper per litre fuel, drives like a diesel - (on boost from 1500rpm) and the fun of a revvy petrol when you want.. and it will do 45+mpg with stop start... not sure when its due out though...

Interesting, will have to have a look at that, but I'm not sure it will convince. Still no harm in trying.

Re Nicks point.

No the 1 series isn't massively smaller than the Octy II, but the difference is big enough and the fuel economy is much better on the 118 and 120d compared to the octy II from both sets of official figures. I parked next to one at work and I've got a good amount on the BMW.

Re The Auris, really didn't like it and the 180 isn't particularly lean on the black stuff.

As for anything from the VAG group, not a hope in hell after the problems I've had with them.

One thing the 118 has going for it is cam chain not cam belt, the mini cooper D uses the 1.6 HDI engine so has a belt too, unlike the old one D that used the yaris chain engine.