Expert answer

Hi Brendan,

Assuming you don't need the bigger boot of the ID.4, then I'd suggest that the Elroq is a superior car in every other way. It drives better, has a far nicer interior and doesn't have the ID.4's ridiculous electric window switches. The Elroq is newer as well in terms of technology and development, so its software and infotainment are better resolved and it's more refined.

The only thing I would say is that the Sportline model may ride on low-profile tyres that detract from comfort a little, so make sure you drive it over poor roads to ensure you're happy with it before you commit.

Drop us a message (in private) via the Contact Us page to let us know how you get on.

Skoda Elroq reviews

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Hi Ashley,

In principle, that should work, though Revenue is specifically looking out for people trying to circumvent VAT and import duty on such cars and there is no fixed three-month period. The wording says, “a reasonable amount of time” and that Revenue will take it on a case-by-case basis.

I suspect that, if it saw the name of the person registering the car in Ireland anywhere near the original paperwork in England, it would suggest that VAT and import duty are payable.

VRT should be minimal or zero depending on the value of the EV after importation regardless of where the car is coming from.

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Hi Mike,

We don't believe so. Our information is that the PHEV will be in Sport and Platinum trims only when in two-wheel drive.

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Hi Tony,

You'll really struggle to fill that brief for under €40k as a new EV, but there are a few good used options to consider. Forget about estates, though, as there are so few electric estates.

The first car that comes to mind is the BMW iX1. The dual-motor 'xDrive30' variant has a 490-litre boot (your Jaguar's is 500 litres I believe) and while it doesn't quote have the same peak outputs as the I-Pace, it is quite rapid and it drives very well.

There are actually a few examples of the BMW iX around within your budget as well, with significantly more performance and space than the iX1. That one has rather more divisive styling we feel...

Another option with loads of power is the early electric version of the Volvo XC40.

Let us know if we're on the right lines here and we'll help you narrow things down further (submit another question to get back to us).

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Hi Edwin,

That car's engine has a timing belt, but it's a long-life item that - according to Audi - needs changing only every 210,000km (regardless of time between changes).

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Hi Martin,

We wish all readers were so detailed in their requirements, as it makes it easy to choose a suitable car for you.

In your position, I'd be inclined to buy as new and long-range a used Nissan Leaf as I can find to use as your second car for ferrying the kids about. It's not huge inside but should be grand for a couple of child seats in the back so long as the front-seat passengers are not really tall.

It'll be exceptionally cheap and easy to run as you already have a charger at home and maintenance will be minimal as well.

And you'll get a bike rack on any car within reason.

If you'd rather not have another EV, then perhaps consider a large hatchback such as the Skoda Octavia. It's massive inside and in the boot so could fill in all the gaps you've mentioned, and there are plenty of different models available, including plug-in hybrids, so it might offer you an extra dimension of versatility, but with the option of keeping your costs low at the same time.

Come back to us to let us know if we're on the right track (you can submit another question or send us a private message via the Contact Us page).

Expert answer

Hi David,

No it does not. Only the topo-of-the-range GR Sport variant can be had with heated seats, but no heated steering wheel is offered.

Expert answer

Hi Frank, 

Yes it does. The Sportline model has lower ride height, stiffer springs and firmer dampers than the standard Enyaq.

Expert answer

Hi Julia,

We wish everyone gave us as much detail in their questions as you have done! You have loads of choice, so we'll pick out a few options that we'd recommend.

1 – You could actually afford a brand-new Hyundai Kona in electric or hybrid guises, and though it's bigger than the previous model, it might be smaller than you're looking for. Worth considering nonetheless as it's a very good car.

2 – The Hyundai Tucson is significantly larger and probably better suited to your needs. For just under €40k you'd get into a very new plug-in-hybrid version or have your choice of plenty of non-plug-in-hybrid variants. It's a solid option.

3 – Same story for the Kia Sportage. It's based on the same underpinnings as the Tucson so really, it's a case of which of them you prefer the look of, or which you can find the best deal on. Loads of them on the market either way.

4 – Now, if you do decide that you want a seven-seater, most of them are larger vehicles, but there are options within budget. The newest and best that come to mind are the Kia Sorento (available with seven seats as a plug-in hybrid) and the Hyundai Santa Fe. Again, they're effectively the same underneath and both are excellent.

5 – There are fewer Volvos about within budget. The newer options are plug-in-hybrid versions of the XC40 or XC60, both decent enough cars, the latter the bigger. To get a seven-seat XC90 you'd have to go back to a 2019 model to stay in budget and we'd suggest that would likely come with big repair bills in the near future so not really what you're looking for.

6 – We're not convinced that available Audis will suit you. You might find a few examples of the Q4 e-tron, which is all electric, though most within budget that are plug-in hybrids are either the Q3 or the Q5. These are fine for your own family size, but limited otherwise, and you'd have to compromise on newness to get into the larger Q5.

7 – Finally, one for the heart rather than the head perhaps, you could afford either a Range Rover Evoque or Land Rover Discovery Sport with plug-in-hybrid power from a few years back. Both of those have five seats, not seven.

Having done all that research for you, we'd suggest that the best options come from either Hyundai or Kia, whether you're going to go for a seven-seater or not. But of course, we'd understand if you're swayed by other factors.

Don't hesitate to come back to us if you want further help narrowing things down.

Expert answer

Hi Edward,

That's not so easy to answer definitively, but I suspect the Toyota could be a little cheaper to run. It does depend of course on which version – and year – XC70 you have. The latest GR Yaris costs €790 a year to tax, for your reference.

Unless you're doing track days, wear and tear in the Yaris should be no more than it is in the Volvo and with a new-car warranty you're isolated from high-value maintenance costs for a few years in any case.

The big unknown is insurance, but only you can determine that by ringing around and getting quotes.

We'd be interested in the outcome if you want to drop us a line after.