Expert answer

Hi Deen,

The CR-V is best of the bunch on both counts, as long as you go for the 2.2 CDTi diesel versions. The last-gen model of CR-V is the best one to go for (2007 to 2012) and it feels properly premium inside too. HR-V is just a bit too cheap and tinny in our opinions. RAV4 is a touch crude and noisy until the current (and rather excellent) current generation model was launched.

Hope that helps you

Expert answer

Hi Jimmy,

Try a Skoda Octavia 1.2 TSI petrol. It's massive inside and has a huge boot, and it can easily reach 50mpg in daily driving, with around 900km to a tank possible.

Expert answer

Hi Albert,

It's a timing chain, so theoretically no maintenance necessary once you stick to recommended oil changes.

Expert answer

Hi Donagh,

All of the cars you've listed there will be both a lot more reliable and much more economical than your 407, but potentially your best bet is to stay within the Peugeot dealer network where you'll most likely get the best deal on your trade-in. The new 308 is looking pretty impressive, comes with a five-year warranty and Peugeot's build quality has come on a long way since the 407...

Let us know which way you go

Expert answer

Hi Morgan,

Honestly, there is just nothing to look for on these cars, beyond the usual making sure the service history is complete and up to date, and checking underneath for signs of, ahem, over-enthusiastic off-roading. It is worth bearing in mind that these cars are bred for hard work and can get abused by former owners, but as long as you're happy with the history, all should be well. As for long or short wheelbase, it depends what you want it for. If you're planing on carrying kids or other rear seat passengers, then get the long wheelbase model, as the shortie is just a bit pointless in the back. And definitely go for automatic, it'll pay off come resale time.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Morgan,

There's no doubt that the Land Cruiser will be the more reliable of the two. Toyota's quality has dipped in some areas of late, but the Land Cruiser is still something of a halo model for the whole range. There is a good reason why Land Cruisers are the vehicle of choice in sub-Saharan Africa and other harsh environments and that's because they're built tough. The current model lacks a little in terms of its cabin appointments (certainly, the Audi feels far plusher) and it does roll a lot through the corners (again, the Audi is much better to drive), but it's superbly comfy, very spacious and you'll be giving it to your grandkids in your will. 

Mind you, the Audi is no shabby player when it comes to reliability, and only really excessive front tyre wear (it's been known to get through a set in as little as 8,000km) and some electrical niggles (watch for powered tailgate problems) seem to count against it.

Our instinct would still be to go for the Toyota though. The Q7 has an unfortunate whiff of the trendy, socialite, school-run SUV about it whereas the Land Cruiser is more appealingly rugged.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Nessa,

Yes it is. In fact, in the latest generation RAV4, it doesn't appear possible to get a front-wheel drive only petrol RAV4. The 2.0-litre petrol 'Valvematic' model with AWD (all-wheel drive) starts at €33,830. Full details on Toyota's own website.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Patsi,

Go for the Tiguan. It's a really sweet car and much more refined and pleasant to drive than that generation of RAV4. One thing to watch; the boot on the Tiguan is a little on the small side, so bring your dog along for a test drive to make sure that he/she is comfy in the back.

Let us know how you get on

Expert answer

Hi Gerald,

It's possible that the alternator is 'overcharging' as it's called. Best to have the car checked over by an auto-electrician.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Richard,

It kind of depends on a couple of things. First of all, which Mondeo do you mean? Current or previous, petrol or diesel? And what are you using it for? Mostly urban, mostly motorway? Family and kids to haul around or just yourself?

Generally I would always say to go with the Mondeo, as it's such a fantastic and (yes) a 'complete' car.