Expert answer

Hi Adam,

We asked Audi Ireland this one and the response was as follows:

"There is no recommended change interval for these components. While they are classified as wear and tear items the rate at which replacement is required is based on a number of factors: driving style, annual mileage, urban/rural mix of mileage, vehicle load (passengers, luggage or trailer)"

Sorry to not have a definitive answer for you.

Expert answer

Hi Sean,

The CO₂ emissions of that model are 139g/km so the annual motor tax is going to cost you €280. VRT is much, much harder to calculate as it's down to the spec more than the year and mileage, and the mandarins of Revenue are famously arcane in their calculations. Prices for that model seem to hover around the €15,000 mark so, assuming Revenue accepts that as being the Open Market Selling Price (OMSP), then the VRT would be 19 per cent of that, which is €2,850.

Please don't take that as gospel though!

Expert answer

Hi Michael,

Basically yes, it's almost impossible to kill an Avensis, but you could also consider a Skoda Superb, Honda Accord or Mazda6 as they will all be similarly reliable. The Mazda is the most fun to drive, the Accord the most luxurious (though they are pricey too) and the Superb the most spacious. The Avensis is a good mix of the three and with so many being on the road, you'll probably get the best value by shopping Toyota. Just avoid ex-taxi ones and it's worth buying an approved second hand example from a Toyota dealer to get a warranty and good after-sales care.

Let us know how you get on

Expert answer

Hi David,

Diesel particulate filter issues are common to all modern diesel engines and it's basically down to how the car is driven. It's part of why diesels aren't suitable for low mileage, short-hop drivers. 

The Mazda issue appears to be down to the fact that the diesel particulate filter warning light double-jobs as a warning light for other exhaust and emissions issues, meaning that fixing or replacing the filter might not be the whole story. Essentially, if you've got this problem, it's best sorted by a trained and informed Mazda mechanic, as they can interrogate the engine's computer in detail.

Expert answer

Hi Emer,

Both are excellent in terms of reliability (they are after all a Mazda and a Toyota), but it's the Mazda that will be more fuel efficient. Simple physics really; while there's not much difference in the overall weight, the RAV4, being an SUV, is taller and therefore less aerodynamic. Unless you need (and I mean REALLY need) the RAV's extra ground clearance and rough road abilities, then a Mazda6 (especially the estate one) should prove a reliable, spacious and enjoyable ownership prospect. 

Let us know which way you go

Expert answer

Hi there,

I’d be slightly careful. Remapping can unleash more power and torque, but you need to be very careful that the chip comes from a reputable source and that it won’t unduly affect the reliability and fuel consumption of the engine. I’d have a word with the guys at the Volkswagen and Audi owners club of Ireland, VAGE, as they tend to know their onions and would be able to give you more precise advice.

Expert answer

Hi Justin,

Two best choices here would be a Mazda6 2.0 TD from around 2003 or a Ford Mondeo Zetec diesel of similar vintage. As long as they're in decent nick, reliability shouldn't be a problem (the Mazda will do better than the Ford but not perhaps by the margin you might be expecting) and both are safe and spacious.

What do you think?

Expert answer

Hi Martin,

We asked Audi Ireland about this one. Here's the answer:

"The standard screen for the MMI system is automatically retractable. It electrically pops up upon engine start and reclines upon engine cut.

It only operates for satnav if that is fitted to the car. If the screen does not automatically retract then the Audi owner should get his car checked by an authorised Audi service centre.

There is a button that you can click to retract the screen, but this is only once the car has started. It should automatically come up next time the car starts regardless."

Sounds like you need to bring the car into Audi I'm afraid. Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Peter,

A brilliant car, albeit one with a couple of shortcomings relative to its German rivals. It's probably the best-looking car in the class, and the 500-litre boot is a match for the BMW 5 Series Touring and Audi A6 Avant (though much smaller than that of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class). It's utterly delightful to drive too, better even than the much-praised BMW, with brilliant steering and a comfy ride.

On the downside, the interior is a step behind the Germans (not enough space, old-fashioned touch-screen infotainment system, narrow front seats) and the fuel tank is on the small side, limiting your touring range and making the car feel thirstier than it actually is. The 2.2-litre diesel engine in 190hp form is the best all-round to go for, but the lower power 163hp is a bit cheaper to buy and you'll hardly ever notice the difference in day-to-day driving. Or, you could get the best version; the 272hp 3.0 D V6 diesel – a properly quick, practical car that.

Here's our road test of the XF Sportbrake

Expert answer

Hi John,

Great car, the Mazda6, and lovely to drive. Two things though: you may well find that 2.0-litre petrol to be both a touch thirsty and, consequently, very hard to move on again come resale time. And at that mileage it's imperative to make sure that the car has a full service history and that major maintenance work such as timing belt replacements and oil changes have been done.