Perth - What Cheap Car (sub-$8k)

[Progressive]

Need a cheap car in Perth for doing the shopping and weekends away. Totally open to suggestions. Only criteria is less than ten years old, not a fuel guzzler and small enough for the wife to park. Liked the idea of an SUV, but which one? I've never considered these before.

Viewed a Honda CRV earlier today which was excellent, but the air con had given up. Google suggests that it is likely an expensive (and common) fault.

Any help or suggestions?

[Jader1973]

Sticking Perth, SUV and sub $7,500 into Carsales throws up over 100 choices but the majority are over 10 years old.

I'd suggest a Subaru Forester as they have a good reputation and there are loads about, however getting one that fits your age requirements for your budget might be tricky.

CRVs are good - I had one in the UK for a while. Wife liked it, but it was quite thirsty IIRC by UK standards (2.0 Auto, the 2.4s are worse). Again finding one that meets your age/budget requirements might be tricky.