I'm looking to buy a new or nearly new small 3-door diesel hatchback to replace my trusty rusty 1998 Fiesta. I don't want a high-spec model, because that's just more stuff to go wrong, and impede access in the engine bay.
All the latest models seem to have much smaller bonnets than my current car, which makes me wonder how easy DIY maintenance would be. Here are my thoughts, any comments?
Fiesta, Corsa, Clio - hopefully spares are cheap and widely available. Yaris, Colt - not available without air conditioning and electric windows. Peugeot 207 - heavy, won't that wear out components quicker? Mazda 2 - only available in 5-door, I don't need that many. Micra - looks like it sacrifices interior space for a curvy exterior? Seat Ibiza - not available without air conditioning? Skoda Fabia, Volkswagen Polo - 3 door not available without air conditioning, expensive spares?