I want a car for

 

Mark, you're probably going to laugh at me but try a Volvo S80, a comfier car you could not own, not amazing to drive per se but solid and the Diesel engine is superb. Failing that Mondeo TDCI.

Ignore the BMWs imo, overpriced relatively speaking and everyone thinks you're a cock. Vauxhall omega not bad Audis are okay too but I would look at the Ford group stuff first.

All of the residuals will be utterly shite but at least a mondeo wont cost you as much in servicing.

 

That was my immediate thought too.

My brother used to have one as a company car - quite comfortable for motorway-munching and better to drive than you might think.

I'd have thought you may even be able to get the ST TDCi version within the top end of your budget.

 

My mate has one and he really likes it.

Surprisingly well-built too.

Not sure how easy it would be to get hold of an auto though:/

 

I'd echo Boab (to a point) and would steer clear of the German stuff and go for something that is cheap to replace, parts & service.

Probably a Ford of sorts, or Vauxhall - maybe a Toyota.

If I am right, you will be chugging to/from the M62 aqnd use for nothing else? If so I would buy something for <

 

Yeah, chugging across the M62 and around the M60 car park to the M602 car park.

Will I find something under 2k that is comfy and relaxing to drive and I'll be able to trust?

 

I do about the same miles every day on the M25 in a Volvo S60 T5. Didn't cost me much compared to Golfs, Audis etc and does apprx 32mpg including being stuck in traffic, town driving and the occasional flooring of the pedal. Great performance compared to most barges.
Crap image but IDGAF

 

Yes.

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/394601.htm

Perfect for the motorway schlep, bulletproof engine and evry easy to work on.
Parts are plentiful and cheap (GSF do everything you need mail order), every mechanic knows them, they're comfy, warm in winter, spacious, the 2.0 Turbo is a good balance between power and economy and they're pre-GM Saab so they never go wrong.

I'd have another in an instant.

 

All good suggestions. I do like the Saab 9000 idea actually. And am amenable to a TDCi Mondeo

 

If its mainly motorway cruising, do you really want an auto? They're not so good on fuel as a manual and there's not much need to change gear when your cruising at 70.