Used car……

Im after some advice, I’m looking to buy a used car, I really like the bmw x6 3ltr diesel which is around the £6000 area. But unfortunately due to my travel distance from my home to work etc I don’t travel many miles. I’ve been told that I need to travel a fair few miles for a diesel car but from my home to work is about 5 miles. So with that I mind is there a similar car (prefer a suv style car) to a bmw x6 that is petrol.

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supersnipe · 61-69, M

Looking at the 'Which?' listings, the BMW X5/X6 are fine, and come in a variety of petrol, diesel and hybrid drivetrains. They're comfortable, roomy and decent to drive, but they're quite large, heavy vehicles so they drink fuel. There are loads of things you might try instead (Audi Q5, Toareg, Mercedes 'M' class...) but the smaller X3 might do it - it's more compact, lighter and so less thirsty.

You are right that diesels sometimes aren't worth it if you're not going to do many miles. They also have specific problems (DPF's etc) which are absent from spark-ignition vehicles.

Paulypeeps · 51-55, F

@Ian1892 As long as you do a longer journey from time to time the DPF should not get clogged - you just need to get the exhaust up to a good temperature so that the DPF starts working properly. A heavy right foot will be your friend here - you don't want to be poodling around.

It is swings and roundabouts because with a petrol you have to maintain spark plugs and you will use more fuel. I would try it and see how it goes - what you really need for that sort of mileage is an electric car! There are not many diesels made nowadays so a good diesel like the X6 will be sought after in time to come.