7th Gen Vi Hatchback - Thoughts?

[spetz]

Hi guys,
How is the 7th Gen Vi hatch as a daily?
Most importantly it's reliability and fuel economy, for a 1.7 manual?

Other cars in it's class I would consider:
N16 Pulsar
http://us1.webpublications.com.au/static/images/articles/i536/53681_00mg.jpg

Corrolla
http://www.autobonus.ie/foto/1107/1/4379-toyota-corolla-6181.jpg

Mazda 3
http://image.motortrend.com/f/9486931+w569+h356+ar1/112_0406_first_test_2004_mazda3_5-door_01l+2004_mazda3_5-door+right_front_view.jpg

The Civic (according to carsales.com.au) has the best economy.
The Mazda 3 is probably the best looking and most sporty, but the least economical with the 2.0L.
Corolla has the nicest interior I think.
Pulsar is a bit of an inbetween everything car I think. ie, ok at everything, good at nothing.

Thoughts, opinions?
Any cars that I have missed?

Thanks

[6thgear]

fuel economy good and yes reliable. good as a daily. quite roomy too due to the flat floor, plenty of room for groceries. corollas not bad either, but i'm biased being on this forum. what would set all these cars apart are the prices really. have you taken anyfor a test drive?

[curtis265]

i would pick based on conditon, with preference on the mazda 3

civic looks like a pregnant jazz

[spetz]

No I haven't test driven any yet. Still not sure the car I want.
The Mazda 3 is too thirsty for what it is + retained too much of it's value.
I'd prefer the Corolla personally however it seems the Pulsar is the best deal (depreciated the most, most economical, and decent inside and out).
I would prefer a bigger car though but the fuel economy is why I am hesitant (would prefer a 3.5L Verada)

[CrystalSkull]

Since you'll be driving daily factor in safety features.

[Nitrous1024]

How is the 7th Gen Vi hatch as a daily?
Most importantly it's reliability and fuel economy, for a 1.7 manual?

I'll endorse this vehicle anyday. I wouldn't recommend it for hairpin cornering though (without an upgraded suspension and brake-kit), There is some lag in the D17A but none in my D15B. As a daily driver, I consider it a good buy, but I wouldn't recommend it for street racing unless you are a good driver and know how to change gears properly.