EYES ON REPRISE

THE QUESTION

I’m looking to replace my 2007 Honda Accord Euro, owned since new. I love its features, style and power. I’m keen for a Japanese vehicle, so that servicing and parts are affordable, with power and reliability to match my Honda. The size of my garage means I’m limited to a vehicle about 4800mm long. I like the Subaru Levorg 2.0 GT-S AWD. What else should I consider? I’m concerned European cars may eventually have higher maintenance costs. Cindy Mason, email

ANSWER

Your Accord was a fine choice with a punchy four-cylinder and excellent driving dynamics. To replicate it you’ll need something roomy, luxurious and fun to drive. As with all cars, we’d need a crystal ball to know which will prove reliable, though Japanese is a solid bet. You’ll appreciate how far technology and safety have advanced in 12 years and there’s great value buying sedans and wagons rather than in-vogue SUVs. A new Accord is coming next month, with a 158kW 2.0-litre hybrid — in other markets it gets a 188kW four-cylinder turbo so let’s consider more engaging alternatives.

CHOICES SUBARU LEVORG 2.0 GT-S AWD, $55,728 D/A

How long can you wait? The new-generation Levorg should go on sale late next year, instantly dating the current one. You’re right to pick the 197kW 2.0-litre (not the tame 125kW 1.6) for this Sportwagon: it’s the same thumping motor as in the WRX, even if it’s mated to a continuously variable transmission, which dulls the fun. All-wheel drive and sticky tyres equal superb grip and thrills but it’s not the quietest or comfiest ride. Luxury’s good with sporty heated leather seats with blue stitching, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satnav, comprehensive EyeSight safety gear, plus you get wagon practicality and near identical length (4690mm) to your Accord. It’s pricey and thirsty, claiming 8.7L/100km. Servicing every six months costs a frightening $2353 for the first three years. Five-year warranty gives assurance and Subarus have a good name for reliability.

MAZDA6 ATENZA WAGON, $55,898 DRIVE-AWAY

One of my favourite all-rounders. It’s 4805mm long so should just fit your garage and is dripping with quality inclusions. Nappa leather, wood accents, Bose audio, suede for the dash and doors: it’s a pricey Mazda but there’s value here. Seats are comfy, heated and ventilated. It uses a turbo 2.5-litre good for 170kW/420Nm, is beautifully balanced but is more about serene cruising than sporty driving. It has top-level safety, the warranty’s five years and servicing is a reasonable $1956 for five years.

SKODA OCTAVIA RS245, $49,990 DRIVE-AWAY

More thrills for less money. Yes it’s European but ownership costs won’t sting like a premium brand. It fits your garage, there’s plenty of power — 180kW — from the 2.0-litre turbo and there’s an impressive blend of ride comfort and road holding, with selectable drive modes and adaptive dampers to suit your mood. It’s huge inside, with abundant safety, infotainment and smart features. The five-year warranty and five-year service pack for $1700 are good. Even if Skoda isn’t mainstream in Australia, the brand is massive in Europe and has a good record for reliability. Claimed 6.5L/100km is appealing, if optimistic, and it takes 98RON.

WILDCARD KIA STINGER 200S, $50,490 DRIVE-AWAY

Here’s how to make a style statement. The 4830mm Stinger has the grace, luxury and abilities your Accord Euro had 12 years ago. Seven-year warranty and three-years’ servicing for $1000 bring peace of mind. It has a gutsy turbo (182kW/353Nm) and is rear-wheel drive for greater driving enjoyment. In the cabin, build quality and features feel high class, even with the Kia badge on the steering wheel. Safety and features won’t disappoint but fuel economy’s not great at 8.8L/100km.

VERDICT

The Levorg looks expensive to buy and run in this company. There is a new one due in about 12 months — wait for that if Subaru’s your brand. I’d go the Mazda6 as the best all-rounder but take a look at the Stinger if you favour enthusiastic driving.