choosing new car

How does the updated Kia EV6 compare to updated Hyundai Ioniq 5? Sister cars, both now have the same battery: which is better to live with on everyday commuting?

Looking at MGS6 Exclusive, all seems good but heard there were issues with the panoramic sunroof in previous model. Are you hearing about any problems with new version?

When will the new 75kWh battery Nissan Leaf be available in Ireland?

I've been a diesel driver for 20 years but now need to change car. Should I stay with diesel? Very few choices. Move to 100 per cent petrol, maybe? I have no interest in plug-in hybrids or full EVs.

Could you select a few good diesel and petrol cars for me? Around the same size as a Ford Mondeo, a new car for “271” for up to €60,000.

Hi Fergal,

Demand for both diesel and for actual cars of the same size as the Ford Mondeo are in decline, so there are fewer options than ever on the market today.

The first that comes to mind is the Skoda Superb, offered with a 2.0 TDI 150hp engine and a DSG automatic gearbox. Prices for this vary from €49,935 up to €60,405 depending on how luxurious or sporty looking you want it. There is a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine option as well, within budget so try to get a test drive in both.

The Skoda Octavia can be had with the same diesel engine – with a manual or automatic transmission – for a good deal less outlay. Sure, it's a smaller car, but it's bigger than most alternatives at its price point and well worth considering. You could actually afford the sporty 265hp RS version powered by a turbocharged petrol engine, though I sense that's not what you're looking for.

An outside option is the classy Audi A5 but it's a bit out of budget even at its entry-point, the SE TDI.

There really are very few options meeting your requirements.

I'm in the process of buying my first EV and would love some advice.

I have a Tesla Model 3 Premium booked (delivery estimate is three to four months), but I'm also considering the Xpeng G6. I really like the G6's SUV shape, interior quality, tech features and fast charging.

The G6 is quoted at around 470km of range. I mostly drive around Dublin day to day, with eight to ten summer trips around Ireland of about 300-400km.

What I like about the Model 3 is the tech and features like Sentry Mode, the dashcam and the blind-spot camera when indicating.

What I'm unsure about with the G6 is the range and long-term resale value. Tesla has also released lots of new OTA features.

The price difference is €3,000. Your recommendation and view please?

Could you compare and contrast the Renault 5 E-Tech electric, Citroen E-C3 and Hyundai Inster?

Hi,

I'm considering the Skoda Octavia 1.5 Sportline MHEV and the Skoda Elroq 85 Sportline. I drive 25km daily to work and back in city traffic and the odd occasional Wexford/Waterford jaunt. I have my own driveway so fitting a charger wouldn't be an issue.

On paper, which of these would suit me better?

Why no Acura on your web site?

How much is the MG4 EV?

I'm currently deciding on buying my first EV. During my research, I came across the following models, which I've looked into more closely, watched some of your reviews and I'll soon be doing some test drives. I'd appreciate hearing your unbiased impressions, and I'm still open to alternatives as well.

My current shortlist looks like this:

Leapmotor B10 Design – around €30k
MGS5 EV Luxury – around €32k
Kia EV3 – around €37k, very good warranty and dealer network

I also find these interesting:

Volvo EX30 (probably only used due to the price, though then maybe less attractive because of warranty)
 Leapmotor B05 – around €26k (very attractive for the price and features, but there's still little real-world experience with it)

My profile:
Around 70km commuting distance per day
Mostly stop-and-go / urban traffic

Goals:
Low running costs and good efficiency
Comfortable and quiet driving is important
Enough space for leisure activities
Planning to add a tow hitch for bikes
Warranty coverage is important
No family
Budget around €30k

At the moment I'm leaning towards:

Best value for money: B10
Warranty and size: EV3
Middle-ground alternative: MG S5

What I'd be especially interested in:

Real-world experiences
Comfort/suspension in daily driving
Software/driver assistance systems
Quality/workshop service experiences
Real-world efficiency/consumption
Annoying everyday issues that only become noticeable later on