So we're looking for a new or near-new (approx <2yrs <30k kms) mid-size vehicle. We've considered the Focus, Mazda3 and Impreza thus far. The budget is circa $30k. The main requirements are comfortable seating for 4, reasonable boot space, and all of the safety. Sedan, hatch, SUV, bodystyle not a big deal, but a Swift is too small and a Highlander is too big - so, something in the mid size range.
As far as we can see, the Impreza looks to be what we're after - it's about the size we need, and at $30k with most of the gadgets thrown in (including, now, EyeSight with brake assist etc), seems to tick the boxes. The Mazda3 and Focus both start a few thousand above the Impreza, and both look like we need to up-spec to at least the $36k - $38k range to get the safety extras, unless I"m missing something.
The car won't do particularly high mileage, so while fuel economy is a consideration it's not at the top of the priorities.
I'm hoping there may be some other suggestions for what to look at that meets those requirements (and to help ensure my Subie-bias isn't having too big an impact). We can't really stretch the budget any further, but happy to go to it's limit to get the best option. Appreciate any input, thanks :)