We'd like an SUV with three ISOFIX points.
Hi,
We are looking for a car, ideally an SUV that will have three ISOFIX seats for three children under the age of three. This is proving hard to find; do you know of any?
If not, can you suggest a suitable MPV with an SUV look?
Thank you
Jacinta, Cork
Jacinta O'Mahony (Cork)Feb 2017 Filed under: child or baby seats
Expert answer
Hi Jacinta,
Mostly, SUVs with three ISOFIX points in the middle row are the really big ones - Land Rover Discovery, Audi Q7 and so on. The good news is that Peugeot is about to launch the new 5008 and that has three ISOFIX points in the middle row, but it won't be on sale until July in Ireland.
Can you help with a 2012 Audi A4?
Hi, would like to thank you for your advice in the past. Would like your opinion on a 2012 Audi A4. Reliability issues, 120hp vs 143hp, space vs. Passat etc.
Thanking you in advance
Cyril Cleere (Kilkenny)Feb 2017 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi Cyril,
The A4’s a nice car, very comfortable and refined, but it’s not as roomy as the Passat. Don’t go for the 120hp, as it’s just underpowered. As for reliability and problems, it’s a solid car, but you need to keep an eye on the diesel particulate filter (DPF), water leaks from the air conditioning unit, glove box lids that don’t fit properly and worn seatbelt sockets. Check for signs of uneven tyre wear, and noisy suspension is probably the anti-roll bar drop links. No other major problems to report.
Which is the best seven-seat car?
I am planning to buy a seven-seat car; which is the best?
Paul S (Limerick)Feb 2017 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Paul,
It depends on what size you need. If it's a mid-size seven seater, then the Volkswagen Touran, Kia Carens, Toyota Verso and the new Renault Scenic. If you need something larger go for a Ford S-Max or SEAT Alhambra. Here are our reviews:
Can the Volvo V70 fit three child seats?
Hi,
We would appreciate your help regarding our doubts. We are parents of two children aging four and six, and expecting number three in July. We are considering buying a 2016 Volvo V70 with integrated booster seets. Do you have experience in installing infant and other size child seet in between the boosters? All other aspects of this car are great for big families and we hope that it would fit.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely, Jakov
Jakov Ivankovic (Zagreb)Feb 2017 Filed under: child or baby seats
Expert answer
Hi Jakov,
In general, the built-in boosters leave more space between them for a third seat than using other styles of seat, but check it out carefully and make sure that the seat you're planning to use fits comfortably.
Can I import a seven-seat commercial?
Hi,
In terms of importing a Land Rover Discovery that has a commercial classification in the UK already, but has seven seats - what needs to be done in terms of conversion?
Mark Quinn (Dublin)Feb 2017 Filed under: commercial vehicle
Expert answer
Hi Mark,
Tricky one. You'll need to talk to the people at the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) as they're the ones that set the regulations for what counts as a commercial vehicle. More than likely you're going to have to get rid of the extra seats, but have a chat with them first and make sure.
What is the best SUV for families?
What is the best SUV for families?
Kim Spendlove (South Circular Road)Feb 2017 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Kim,
At the moment, I'd say the Kia Sorento, which is big, comfy, smooth and has the requisite seven seats. Hang on though, because the new Skoda Kodiaq and Peugeot 5008 are imminent and those are both cars with big appeal. Relevant reviews:
Opel Insignia or SEAT Exeo saloon?
Opel Insignia 130hp or SEAT Exeo 140hp - 2012/2011? Any problems I should look out for?
Michael Walsh (Mayo)Feb 2017 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi Michael,
There are no major reported issues for the SEAT Exeo (and SEATs tend to be pretty solidly reliable) and the Insignia generally only suffers from minor electrical issues (usually in the central locking and alarm system) and the boot seals (which can leak and let in water). Of the two, we’d go for the Insignia - it’s roomier, it’s nicer to drive and looks and feels a bit more prestigious.
ISOFIX mounts in the new Skoda Kodiaq?
Is it true that it will be possible to order three ISOFIX seats in the middle row of the Skoda Kodiaq?
Jill Gordon (Wicklow)Jan 2017 Filed under: child or baby seats
Expert answer
Hi Jill,
No. There are two standard ISOFIX points in the Kodiaq, in the outer two middle row seats, and a third, optional, point in the front passenger seat. Nothing in the centre rear seat, however, and no ISOFIX at all in the folding third row.
Peugeot 308: will three child seats fit?
Will a Peugeot 308 take three car seats on the back seat?
Jim O'Driscoll (Enniskeane )Jan 2017 Filed under: child or baby seats
Expert answer
Hi Jim,
It depends on the car seats. If at least one of them is a booster cushion (and a narrow one at that) then you might get away with with, but I doubt it would take three full-sized infant seats across without compromising safety.
Which new car would suit a family of four?
I drive a Volkswagen Passat and want a new car that will suit a family of four. Any advice?
Fionn Ni Fhlatharta (Galway)Jan 2017 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Fionna,
Well, to be honest, I would have thought that a Passat was an ideal car for a family of four. What you need is four roomy seats and and a a big boot - and the Passat has those. If you fancy something that looks a bit more like a family car, and here I mean an SUV or an MPV, then stop for a tic and have a think. Are you buying an image? After all, a ‘normal’ saloon such as a Passat (and the Mazda6, Toyota Avensis, Hyundai i40 and Kia Optima all make good alternatives) is generally speaking just as good at family duties and has lower overall running costs. Worth thinking about, at any rate.
Here are some of our reviews to get you thinking: