Hi & welcome.
akira wrote:I'm currently in the process of selling my petrol vehicle in hope of replacing with a decent Diesel. I narrowed my shortlist down to the usual suspects: Mondeo TDCI, Octavia, 406 HDI. The lack of four door isn't really a problem, my main criteria was a car that was pretty reliable and good for long distances despite being up to 10 yrs old. Also needs to be comfy for the long drives so all the usual mod cons.
Sure you guys would correct me if I was wrong but a 406 fills this criteria right? I mean the HDI is reliable? Just the 406 coup tilts it over any of my other options on the looks
Many thanks
steve_earwig wrote:Also, look for stuff about removing the particulate filter, you'll be glad you did

Steve's right - you need to know what you're getting into with a 2.2 HDi, (which is the only diesel version of a coupe). You need to be prepared to ditch the particle filter, but the good news is it can be done very cheaply and you can get it remapped to 180 bhp while you're at it.
To summarise:
406 2.2 HDi (saloon estate or coupe) - ditch particle filter, keep car, enjoy.
Octavia - learn humility while being blown into the weeds by 406's
Mondeo, (pre 2004) - as above.
Mondeo, (2004 on) - keep particle filter, ditch car.