Thanks all for the help. One more question I am afraid; is the maxi-dot thingy worth having? Having had a good look around it looks like my budget will get me around an 08 1.9 or 2.0 pre face lift elegance or possibly a 1.9 09 model facelift elegance if i am lucky. Not many of these cars seem to have the maxi-dot fitted (I know it is an option). Is the lack of it a deal breaker or is it something that wouldn't be missed?

It's not a deal breaker, particularly on the FL models where the standard trip computer display is much better than non-FL models, but if you can find a car that has it and all other things being equal you'll probably be glad you have it.

If I were you I'd hold out for a 1.9 facelift if you can

Aye the sensible head on me says get the 1.9 for the economy as it will be the work horse of the family but I do like to have a bit of performance on tap to overtake etc. Also how does the 1.9 cope fully laden? When we go to France camping the car is full of kit plus about 20 cases of wine! The Focus TDci 136 copes with it ok but will the 1.9 be a bit limp?

Aye the sensible head on me says get the 1.9 for the economy as it will be the work horse of the family but I do like to have a bit of performance on tap to overtake etc. Also how does the 1.9 cope fully laden? When we go to France camping the car is full of kit plus about 20 cases of wine! The Focus TDci 136 copes with it ok but will the 1.9 be a bit limp?

I do a bit of airport transferring & just at Xmas there I had about 8/9 cases & loads of wee bags plus 4 adults & of course myself.... Didn't feel limp at all. I think you'll be fine also. If not, nothing a cheeky wee remap wouldn't sort out.

G

As emission laws have tightened the engines have got worse. I really loved our old 1.9 Mk 1 Octy, OK sounded like a bread van but just went on & on, economy was excellent and a wee remap made it fly. The new 2.o in the Scouit even with the dpf off & a remap just isnt as punchy as the 1.9 & mpg is far worse although in its defence the Scout is heavier & a bigger frontal area so probably not a fair comparison. The old 1.9 driven like a granny would see 65 mpg, the Scout will occasionally creep over 50. When ragged the Scout eats up fuel at an alarming rate

You need to try both, & try a few to see what really suits you, if you are interested in performance loaded take a few heavy mates with you. Ideally try them back to back & find some decent hills

Edited 15 February, 201214 yr by Stuart_J