Hello from a future owner - 2.0 vs. 2.2 advice?

[Feeniks]

Hello!

I'm a 35-year-old current Learner, hopefully from next week on a Driver. I'm taking my test in a manual, but really would prefer to switch to an automatic as soon as possible. If there are any helpful souls on the forum who wouldn't mind giving advice to a total newbie without finding her lack of even the most basic knowledge tedious, I'd be most grateful

So my (first...!) question is about engine size. The difference between a 2.0 and a 2.2 is apparently massive, but as someone whose driving style is soft and calm rather than "treat the vehicle like it's the Millennium Falcon", I'm wondering whether the difference in performance would actually be an issue? Don't get me wrong, I like speed alright, but I prefer building it up smoothly rather than revving the hell out of the machine. So, would you say I and the 2.0 might be perfectly suited? I've read that there's also a huge difference in insurance between the two, is that right? What about consumption? If there is a pretty penny to be saved on insurance and petrol, I'd be quite keen on doing so when I don't actually *need* a beast under the bonnet... however, I don't want to be driving a slug either!

So: how do the two compare?

Any other useful first-time-owner tips would also be most appreciated. Looking forward to getting to know you all!

[Merlin]

Welcome to LG!!

Get the 2.2! There will be little difference in running cost or insurance IMO. Plus you have VTEC on tap for when you want it. The 2.2 VTEC's have more toys too. If you are wanting an auto in 2.2 form you have to get a JDM import as there was no UK 2.2 VTEC 4th gen.

[Free Ranj Egg]

My mate has a 2.0 auto and I drive a 2.2. manual. He has done 130k and I have done 180k. I manage better fuel consumption than he does. on that note you should get a 2.2 if you are after an auto. Theres loads of 5g autos about for cheap money

[NafemanNathan]

Although the higher mileage auto 5th gens have problematic gearboxes.

Welcome to the club by the way

[4thgenphil]

How about the 2.3 non vtec?

[RattyMcClelland]

Having owned both the 2.2 is essentially the same as a 2.0 below 5000rpm.
The 2.0 had a strong midrange from the single cam and very refined but the 2.2 is smoother. Costs were the same.

Where in notts are you?

Welcome.

[Vtecmec]

If you get a 2.0 you will eventually wish you'd bought a 2.2. Insurance, purchase and fuel are effectively the same and the resale value of the vtec will be better in time too.

[Rudelude]

There are lots of low mileage and very clean 2.0 cars...... They r always popping up and nobody wants them because they all want 2.2...... Grab a bargain 2litre I say. And should be cheaper on insurance!

[RattyMcClelland]

As reference my ukdm 2.0i 4th gen was £150 more to insure as my jdm 2.2 5th gen type s with declared mods. We're still taking £1000+ insurance a year as at the time I was 21.

[mercutio]

welcome in as already said the 2.0 cars are pretty good vtec's are better engine wise but if you just like to drive smooth and your not bothered about the traffic light grand prix get a 2.0

what i would say is get a passenger ride in both before hand so you can make up your mind better