
In the second-hand market, the choice is huge, but not all models are the same. In order for the car to pass 300,000 km without incident, you must first make sure of its history. Indeed, highway driving puts less stress on the mechanics and forces the engine to run at the correct temperature, unlike cold city driving.
Also, make sure maintenance is done thoroughly, with regular engine oil changes, as well as gearbox, filter replacement or even a timing kit, on time. But beyond use, you’ll have far fewer frustrations by choosing a reliable model: here’s our pick 10 indestructible models !
10 indestructible models: city cars
there Citroen C3 is one of the most famous city cars: its second generation, launched in 2009, is a model of reliability, especially if you choose the “TU” petrol engine, which is considered indestructible. It is available in a 1.1L 60bhp version as well as a 1.4 liter 75 horsepower : this option is preferred because it is more powerful and gives access to better equipment than the base level.
You’ll also find this engine in its cousin Peugeot 207, whose reliability is at a premium: if you want to go for a diesel engine, avoid the 1.6-liter HDi with a capacity of 110/112 horsepower. The best choice is this 1.6 L HDi with a capacity of 90/92 horsepowerwhich does not know the harm of the older brother.
10 indestructible models: compact
As far as compacts go, Honda made headlines in 2013 with a 10-year or 1 million kilometer warranty. Honda Civic 9 equipped 1.6-liter i-DTEC diesel with a capacity of 120 horsepower. The Japanese company hit the target, as the model is characterized by impeccable reliability, while it stands out with great sobriety: 5.1 l/100 km.
Still among the Japanese Mazda3 worth the detour, with impressive mileage with no mechanical failures. The model shines with the quality of the chassis, as well as an excellent level of equipment. Choose the 2006-2009 Elegance with the engine 1.6-liter gasoline engine with a capacity of 105 horsepower.
If you are more German, take your pick Volkswagen Golf V from 2006-2008 and his 1.9 L TDI with a capacity of 90 horsepower, which does not suffer from the damage of its other versions, which are more powerful. Prices are holding back now, dieselgate was there and reduced the premium for diesel Volkswagens.
10 indestructible models: station wagons
If you’re looking for a family sedan, Toyota Prius III is mandatory despite its divergent design. Stop your choice on the restyling version of 2012-2013, equipped with a hybrid engine 136 horsepower. It shines with its strength and durability, as well as its sobriety. The small flat, however, is quite cheap in terms of finish due to the recycled plastic.
More strict, but reliable BMW 3 series from 2006-2007, from Gasoline engine 330i with a capacity of 256 horsepower, equipped with the famous in-line six-cylinder engine from the Bavarian manufacturer. Prefer the Luxury version with the best value for money.
If you prefer a break, then Volvo V60 from 2011-2012, with an engine five-cylinder 2.4-liter diesel with a capacity of 163 horsepower, very strong and radiates great driving pleasure. The Momentum versions or the special Ocean Race Edition series are solid choices.
In the house of Audibreak A4 Front side generation “B8” is a good choice with 3.0-liter V6 TDI diesel engine with a capacity of 204 hp. Despite the classic look, strict limit, the model is practical and pleasant to drive.
If you’re looking for an affordable family wagon, Dacia Logan MCV from 2011-2012 with 1.5 l dCi with a capacity of 90 horsepower is a must: you will obviously choose it not for the quality of the finish or the style, but for the record volume of the trunk of 652 liters, as well as for the proven diesel engine that does not cause any reproaches.
Source: Auto Plus

Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.