Where do I trade-in my Renault Laguna?
I've got a nine-year old Renault Laguna. I'm looking for a new Golf or equivalent. Who would give me the best trade in/scrappage deal?
Jack Martin (Dublin)Jun 2012 Filed under: used car values
Expert answer
Hi Jack,
The scrappage scheme is over sadly, though Renault is running a similar offer until the end of June. You can get another €1,500 off if you're trading in a car that's over eight years old. Even without that offer you're more likely to maximise the value of that Laguna at a Renault dealer.
Saying all that, I'm sure you know that the Laguna isn't worth a whole lot at that age so it's probably not worth going for a new Renault just because you'll get a better trade-in price for it. If you do decide to go down the new Volkswagen Golf route, check with the dealer how much they'd be willing to knock off the price of the Golf by taking the Laguna. If it's a tiny amount then consider selling the Laguna privately. It's more hassle, but you're likely to get a better price.
Hope that helps
What do you think of the VW Golf 1.6 TDI?
Hi lads,
What is your impression of the 2011 VW Golf 1.6 TDI 105bhp?
Thanks again
Jim Cotter (Limerick)Sep 2011 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Jim,
It just so happens that I'm running a BlueMotion version of the 2011 VW Golf right now. It's powered by the same engine as the regular 1.6 TDI 105 model. It's a great car. The engine is much quieter and smoother than the old 1.9-litre unit, if nowhere near as quick as the 2.0-litre TDI option. Still, it's very economical and has enough performance for the Golf.
As much as I love the look of the BlueMotion model it probably makes more sense to go for a normal Golf with this engine, unless you do very high annual mileage - in which case the better economy would quickly pay back the premium you pay.
Hope that helps.
Volkswagen Golf or SEAT Leon?
I am replacing a 2005 Ford Focus. In all that I have driven I find the Volkswagen Golf comes closest.
I have yet to try the SEAT Leon. How do you compare them? There are so many different styles and prices in both that it is confusing.
I want a post-2008 diesel, and a comfortable seat is a must! There is a new SEAT Leon 1.9-litre Sport Limited Edition 105hp diesel, Tax Band B, reduced by €2,000 to €19,900 or a new Golf 1.6 TDI diesel 105hp for €21,200. Is there much difference in running costs between a 1.6-litre and 1.9-litre?
Angela Osullivan (Wicklow)May 2010 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hello again Angela,
I know Shane answered your last question, but I think I can answer your follow up question. The Golf and Leon are quite similar; the Leon is definitely the prettier car and the Golf the more sensible. I know what you mean about the Leon range, as there are 17 different versions, which seems excessive.
The thing is with SEAT is that it tends to get the older technology from Volkswagen, so the Leon still has an older engine range, namely the 1.9-litre TDI, which is quite a noisy old engine. The 2.0-litre TDI is also available in the Leon, but at a higher cost.
The 1.6-litre 105hp engine in the Golf is a newer and cleaner engine, with better fuel economy. It hasn't made it to the Leon just yet, so the better engine is in the Golf right now.
In terms of running costs, the road tax is slightly less on the Golf, at €104 against the €156 in the Leon. The Golf has slightly better fuel economy (62.8mpg v 56.5mpg) but that is a relatively small difference.
That Leon is great value, but in terms of an investment I would be inclined to go with the Golf, as I would think the residual value will be better with the newer Golf with the newer engine.
Hope that helps