Which is more important for a high mileage car, efficiency or reliability?

I travel 130 miles per day, 5 days a week, and I'm currently in a Honda Jazz getting around 48mpg. I'm looking at getting a new car soon, and had considered getting a Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi ECOnetic for it's fuel economy. A piston head at work, suggested that Ford parts are getting more expensive these days, and I should perhaps stick with a Japanese car for reliability. For that, I had considered getting a Honda HR-V 1.6 i-DTEC. What would you consider a priority, economy and fuel efficiency or the reliability of the motor, especially given the miles that I do?

Asked on 19 January 2017 by gavin

Answered by Honest John
I ran an HR-V 1.6 i-DTEC for 12 months and 12,000 miles, averaging 58mpg and 10,000 miles on Michelin Cross Climates for better ride, steering feel and less road noise. 100% reliable. Had it serviced at 10,000 miles by a Honda dealer and it was done while I waited for just over £200. They even cleaned it. You'll probably get 65mpg from a Civic with the same engine.
Similar questions
What car would you recommend for 25,000 miles a year, mainly motorway driving? I have had Audi and Mercedes-Benz in the past but found that the rate they go through tyres makes them too expensive. I intend...
I'm thinking of buying a Ford Mondeo Estate, 16 or 66 plate. I drive around 30,000 miles per year, of which 20,000 are motorway miles. Would you opt for diesel or petrol? I plan to keep the car for four...
I'm currently running a 2009 Volkswagen Golf Plus 2.0 TDI that I've had for almost five trouble-free years. It'll be at 90,000 miles soon and I think I should get out before I have to spend money on it....
Related models
Punchy and efficient diesel engines, class-leading practicality, excellent reliability record.
Sharper looks than the previous Ford Fiesta. Comes with the award-winning 1.0 Ecoboost three-cylinder.
Highly practical and versatile thanks to ‘magic’ seats. Strong i-DTEC diesel engine.