Is the Opel Mokka X the same size?
I am waiting delivery of a new Opel Mokka X and wish to purchase a rubber fitted boot protector in advance. Most or all of those advertised on Amazon describe them as "2012 onwards". They seem to relate to the model prior to the X model. Are the measurements and shape of the X identical to the previous model?
Declan Corry (Greystones)Feb 2017 Filed under: aftermarket
Expert answer
Hi Declan,
Yup, it's exactly the same car. Opel changed the styling at the front, tidied up the dashboard design and gave it some new engines, but the overall structure, body and dimensions remained the same.
A few questions about turbocharging...
Hi, I have a few related questions please about turbo petrol cars. I'm thinking of changing my car soon and might actually go for petrol over diesel this time, mainly due to cheaper purchase price and reliability concerns about diesel cars when warranty runs out.
Do modern turbo petrol cars typically have EGR valves and Dual Mass Flywheels, two parts that often cause problems in diesel cars? Also most turbo petrols of today don't have particle filters, do they?
Final question please: why, if petrol is meant to have more potent power than diesel in many ways and I know petrols can generally manage higher revs and top speeds than diesels, do turbo petrol cars usually have much less torque/pulling power figures than equivalent sized turbo diesel engines? I've found diesels to have much more pulling power and responsiveness at speeds that are actually legal and under the limit, than petrols, in cars I've driven. Why is this when both types have turbos?
K Holden, Waterford.
Kieran Holden (Waterford)Jan 2017 Filed under: diesel
Expert answer
Hi Kieran,
Yes, turbocharged petrol engines do often have exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems and dual-mass flywheels, but they are far less likely to cause problems due to, respectively, the different exhaust gases and the torque characteristics of the engine. Added to which, petrol engines work at lower combustions pressures and with less vibration than diesel engines so there's a little less wear and tear to worry about.
No, turbocharged petrol engines don't have particulate filters as, for now, they're considered 'clean' enough not to need them. That will change in the coming years, however.
Finally, the low-down-power thing is simple physics. Most turbocharged petrol engines and their diesel counterparts are pretty close on top-end power numbers (generally grouping around the 110-120hp level), but the difference you're talking about is torque - turning force, that low-down lugging sensation. Some of that is down to turbo design and the fact that a heavier diesel engine can accept higher turbocharger pressures, but most is simply down to the fact that diesel burns from compression ignition, which generates more torque and makes the engine feel more muscular at lower rpm.
What's happening with the BMW X2?
What can you tell us about the BMW X2?
Martin Moroney (Dublin)Aug 2016 Filed under: future cars
Expert answer
Hi Martin,
It’s going to be a lower-slung, 'coupe' version of the X1 SUV, with a higher price tag and a coupe-like roofline in the mould of the bigger BMW X4 and X6. It’ll mostly carry over the engines and chassis from the X1, which means the entry level model could be the 150hp 2.0-litre 18d engine. We’ll have more details towards the end of September after the car is officially unveiled for the first time at the Paris Motor Show.
Will petrol particulate filters cause problems?
I read that Volkswagen intends to introduce a Gasoline Particulate Filter to petrol engines. Will this mean that low mileage, short run petrol owners like me could have the same expensive problem that low mileage diesel owners have?
Frank D (Dublin)Aug 2016 Filed under: future engines
Expert answer
Hi F D,
Short answer? We don't know yet. Theoretically, petrol engines heat up much more quickly than diesel engines (mostly because they're less thermally efficient) and therefore shorter journeys are less of an issue in that respect. It just depends on how much heat you need to generate to clean the filter and for how long. I'm sure that car makers will claim, as they did with diesel, that the filters are designed to be maintenance free, but then we've heard that before haven't we?
Will Audi Ireland offer a 2.0-litre petrol A3?
Does Audi Ireland intend to offer the new 2.0-litre petrol engine in the revised A3 range?
Gary Murray (Dublin)Jul 2016 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Gary,
It’s only available in the 310hp S3 model at the moment, and given the trend for down-sizing and having smaller, more efficient engines, I’d say it’s unlikely to be offered in a lower state of tune in a more affordable version. Mind you, the 1.4 TSI engine has a very healthy 150hp so is well worth looking at.
Hyundai Santa Fe or Chevrolet Captiva?
Hi,
I am in need of a seven-seater, was thinking of a Chevrolet Captiva or Hyundai Santa Fe. To explain fully I am a childminder, I average less than 20 miles a day and this will be a second car so looking to keep costs low. Was thinking of an 08 Captiva or a 06/07 Hyundai. I know the tax is high on the Hyundai, but I need a reliable car. I like the Chevrolet looks wise, but any input would be great.
Thank you!
Sheila Newton (Galway)Jul 2016 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi Sheila,
Both should be reliable, with the Hyundai just edging it in that regard. As you say, neither will be cheap to run, but with your mileage your only major cost is going to be motor tax and at least you can budget for that. Do plan to take at least one longish spin a week though to allow the diesel engines to warm through properly or you'll be looking at big repair bills.
On balance I'd go for the Hyundai, but it would be well worth looking at something like a Ford S-Max or SEAT Alhambra, which have even more space and generally lower running costs.
What's happening with the Mk8 Golf?
Hi,
You mention in the Renault Megane article that an 'all new Golf debuts later this year.' Do you have any more details please as to whether this is a facelifted MK7 or will it be a Mk8?
Martin Smith (Dublin)Jul 2016 Filed under: future cars
Expert answer
Hi Martin,
It'll be more of a thorough facelift, but Volkswagen may well decide to break out the Mk8 badges. Expect to see a major interior update with a big central touch screen (with gesture control) and some new and updated engines - including, possibly, a new family of 1.5 TDI three-cylinder diesels.
Does the 2011 Renault Megane use AdBlue?
Does the 2011 Renault Megane diesel engine use AdBlue?
Thanks
Jason Lynch (Navan )Jun 2016 Filed under: diesel
Expert answer
Hi Jason,
No. Renault is still in the process of rolling out AdBlue, or Selective Catalytic Reduction, injection to its 1.5 and 1.6 diesel engines.
How often to change my Astra's cambelt?
HOW OFTEN DO I HAVE TO REPLACE MY 1997 1.6 OPEL ASTRA ESTATE' CAMBELT?
How often do I have to replace the cambelt in my 1997 Opel Astra 1.6 estate?
Malcolm Johnson (Pniel Stellenbosch)May 2016 Filed under: servicing
Expert answer
Hi Malcolm,
Your car has a cambelt and it needs to be changed at least every four years or 36,000 miles (58,000km). Those engines get badly damaged if the timing belt snaps so don't scrimp on it.
Does a 2011 Audi A4 have a timing belt?
2011 Audi A4 2.0 TDI: does this have a timing belt or a chain?
Sonia Olejarz (Belfast)May 2016 Filed under: servicing
Expert answer
Hi Sonia,
It turns out that there are 2.0 TDI engines from 2011 with chains and with belts - according to our date. So we'd need either your registration or the engine code from your car to check for sure. You can send those in private using the comment section below.