Expert answer

Hi Dorothy,

OK, the official schedule for changing the timing belt is 60,000 miles so if the one you're looking at hasn't had it done, it's on serious borrowed time. Other than that, they're very reliable, one of the most solidly built cars you can buy. We've heard reports of intermittent issues with the electric sliding side doors and some problems with the infotainment system, but the main mechanical package is pretty tough. In 2010, the Carnival got upgraded to the full Kia seven-year warranty, so that just shows you the faith Kia has in it.

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Hi Brendan,

We're acutely aware of this, which is why we mentioned depreciation and other costs in our notes at the end of the article (here it is if anyone else is interested). Predicting future values of current cars is a black art that we'd rather not take part in!

Saying that, diesel cars currently hold their value a little better, but we suspect that may change in time, with the advent of more efficient petrol technology, plus, potentially, lower bills as a car gets much older. Along with all that of course is that fact that petrol cars will become very rare soon following our new car buying habits of the past four to five years.

Thanks for getting in touch.

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Hi Barbara,

Yes, it’s due to arrive in 2019 (and will probably be shown off at next year’s Geneva Motor Show in February) and will be based on the same TNGA chassis as you’ll currently find under the Toyota Prius and CH-R. It will definitely use the same new 1.5-litre petrol engine as installed in the updated Yaris, and will also get the 1.6-litre diesel bought-in from BMW and already being used in the Avensis and Verso. There is likely to be a hybrid version too, but that’s not guaranteed as yet.

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Hi Patrick,

Renault Ireland tells us that we should be able to test one in July, so that's likely to coincide with the cars arriving in dealers as well. We'll be at the international launch of the car this week.

In case you missed our earlier news item here it is: Stylish new Renault SUV on the way

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Hi Morgan,

We asked Cartell.ie to comment on this, as they're deeply involved in clocking legislation etc. Here's what they said:

"This is an interesting scenario. There are two issues here: 1 - On a legal level, in proposed legislation that Cartell drafted, seeking to criminalise vehicle clocking, we sought to accommodate this type of scenario in the drafting of the provisions. We certainly appreciate that a genuine attempt to represent fairly the mileage of the vehicle, where the original odometer of a vehicle no longer functions, should be accommodated by future legislation in this area. 2 - Practically, we feel this vehicle should be advertised with the true mileage, not the figure showing on the odometer. The seller can then clarify the issue of mileage where there is a query from a prospective purchaser. At Cartell we are happy to enter the correct mileage into the National Mileage Register for the vehicle, if the owner wishes to pass this along to us."

Hope that helps

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Hi there,

We're told that the new Skoda Yeti will be here in 2014 with a revised look front and rear (and we suspect on the inside too). There are no official or otherwise shots available though.

Thanks

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Hi William,

I'm afraid that engine is getting on now so it's not as economical as the latest generation of low capacity, turbocharged units. Our data shows the official combined consumption at 5.8 litres/100km (48.7mpg) so you're doing quite well really.

Usual tips to help improve further apply:

- remove unwanted junk from the boot

- check your tyre pressures and wheel alignment

- make sure the air filter is clean

- ensure it's well serviced

- don't use air conditioning or rear window demister unless needed

Hope that all helps in some way

Expert answer

Hi there,

A rate of €570 per annum would put the car in Band D based on its emissions, which is 155- to 170g/km. Our initial investigations suggest that this car should have emissions of just 134g/km, which would put it in Band B2 for an annual tax bill of €280, however, that's for a newer car than you're talking about. The older one has emissions of 165g/km, which would indeed mean a €570 tax bill.

Hope that helps clear it up

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Hi Neil,

The seller will have to request a letter from the bank confirming all of the above, but I don't know if they'll provide one any quicker. Still worth a try.

I certainly wouldn't advocate taking a risk on it and just believing the seller.

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Hi Rolande,

The €14,990 price quoted in our first drive is for the entry level, two-wheel-drive, Duster in 'Alternative' specification with the Signature 4WD model that we tested coming in at €18,990 as you say.

For reference, information from manufacturer sites should always be checked, as prices and specifications can change over time and every once in a while a car will slip through the cracks when we update test drives.

We hope that clears things up for you.