What to replace my Mondeo with - for up to €40,000?

Looking to replace my 2020 Ford Mondeo Vignale with a budget total of €40k including trade in. I like the size, heated seats, fast window demister and auto lights. I also like the look of the Audi Q3, Mazda CX-5 (I had two Mazda6s in the past).

Any suggestions? Needs to be manual as my kids are starting to drive soon...

Edel, Galway (Oranmore)

Jan 2026 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Edel,

Not many cars have the same windscreen demister that Fords do, so you may have to compromise on that. Most at your budget will have heated seats and auto lights though.

You can afford a 2023 Audi Q3 with a manual gearbox and there are plenty around within budget whether you want a diesel or a petrol engine.

For the same price, you'd get a year newer Mazda CX-5, again with a manual gearbox if you want it, and the option of petrol or diesel power.

The Mazda will be the better-equipped of the two and the more enjoyable to drive.

Then it just comes down to which you prefer the look of (the Mazda wins that one hands down).

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor