Hi All!

First post and I'd thought I'd dive straight in...

Having taken on a new job looking to get something economical, with a bit (or more than a bit) of poke to do the commute in, but that's comfortable too.. let's just say I've had a 'significant' birthday this year so the old back comfort is important

Anyway, TDi VRS is on the shortlist, hoping to go and kick a few tyres this weekend.. probably looking for a 1-2 year old car (no real preference whether it's a hatch or estate), with no more than 20k on it... I'll probably be putting something in the region of 18-20k pa on the car.. 95% Motorway...

So, lots of info on here... but can folks help with things to lookout for.. (or point me in the direction of the thread(s) that have already asked this... I couldn't find them..

Thanks in advance.....

Same purchase I made a year ago, and for almost exactly the same reasons. A very good choice, if I may say so.

I traded up from a petrol Focus which had 100k on the clock. I do about 25k per year, about 80% of which is motorway, and had a baby on the way, so wanted more space.

At that age and with mileage of sub-20k you're looking for cars that are nigh on perfect. There are quite a few out there (if you're prepared to travel) so you can be picky. Depending on exact age you will either be buying one of the last PD engines or the first CRs. Search "PD CR" for a glut of threads extolling the virtues of each, but in a nutshell power and torque are identical, CR quieter and smoother but more linear in delivery, PD noisier, older tech and a more noticeable powerband/step in torque which some purists are rather fond of.

Obviously the newer you buy the more warranty you have left, which is probably more important than mileage.

There are threads lurking around with lists of common faults, but most are pretty minor. Check for a hefty 'clunk' when changing gear at relatively low revs, which can indicate engine-mount issues. A few major problems were caused by this (ie lunched engines) but they seem to have been relatively isolated. Worth looking at tyre wear to ensure even. Ask the dealers whether the latest CPU upgrade has been done, it makes a noticeable difference to response and smoothness at low revs.

Otherwise usual used car pitfalls apply. You're buying so new that you should have the pick of a good bunch.

I have loved mine since I got it, and it sounds like you want yours for very similar purposes.

Happy hunting!