Expert answer

Hi Gary,

We'd definitely advocate for an estate over an MPV or SUV as they're more space efficient, more fuel efficient and generally better to drive, especially as you clearly spend quite a bit of time on the road.

Assuming you're on the motorway for much of that, then a diesel probably makes the most sense, though if you're generally at lower speeds, it's well worth considering a hybrid instead to keep your maintenance bills down.

Within budget are some lovely premium estates, such as the Audi A4 and A6 Avant, along with the BMW 3 Series Touring, Volkswagen Passat and Skoda Superb, though you might have to compromise and go for high-mileage examples.

There are a few diesel Ford Focus estates around as well, along with the underestimated Kia Ceed estate. On the hybrid side, there's an estate version of the Toyota Corolla to consider as well.

Come back to us if you'd like help narrowing down your search, as you have loads of choice with €20,000 to spend.

Expert answer

Hi Peter,

We’d never consider those cars to be rivals. The entry-level EX90 is nearly €120,000 while the most expensive ID.7 Tourer listed on Volkswagen Ireland’s website is a little over half that.

The EX90 has seven seats and is a luxury car. The ID.7 is lovely inside, really spacious in the rear seats and has a massive boot, but it can’t compete with the Volvo’s interior in reality. Nonetheless, to drive, we’d take the ID.7 every time.

But does any buyer that can afford a certain level of outlay look at a cheaper car and think, “that’ll do me”? We don’t believe so.

Volvo EX90 review

Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer review

Expert answer

Hi Tomas,

As a commercial vehicle, VRT will be 13.3 per cent of the Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) of the Caddy. That’s the value Revenue puts on the vehicle as if it was being sold in Ireland. Best bet is look at the big classifieds websites such as Carzone.ie for similar vehicles to get a gauge for that value.

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Hi Louise,

It would be €710 a year. See our Motor Road Tax Prices in Ireland Explained guide for more information.

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Hi Seoirse,

I’m afraid there’s no way for you to do that yourself in the settings. It requires a change to the car’s country code, which can only be done by Volkswagen or via some “OBD” tools that independent garages use. If you have a good mechanic, mention that to them and see if they’re willing to help.

Expert answer

Hi John,

When the Tayron was first unveiled, Volkswagen Ireland did indicate that yes, it would bring in the 193hp 4x4 model and we've not had an update since then. I can see that this model is not listed on the Tayron Product Guide currently available on Volkswagen Ireland's website, but that is not unusual at the launch of a new model as it may not be initially available.

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Thanks for the kind words Gerry - I've passed on your comments to the author, Neil.

For anyone else interested, the full review can be accessed here.

Expert answer

Hi Mike,

That engine has one of Volkswagen Group's so-called 'long life' timing belts that don't actually come with any set replacement schedule. That's very low mileage but even so there's no harm asking your mechanic to take the 'top cover' off each time the car is serviced to check the condition of the belt itself.

Expert answer

Hi Jake,

You can easily notify your local motor tax office that you will be using a pickup like the Amarok for private use, and then pay the required motor tax. Unfortunately, that may not satisfy the insurers. Best to ask them before you buy the vehicle if this will be sufficient, and also make sure you get a quote. 

If you have no joy, consider employing the services of an independent insurance broker to do the legwork for you.

Best of luck

Expert answer

Hi Connor,

If it is a pan-European warranty, then it should be valid and yes, an Irish dealer should be fine with carrying out warranty work if needed. If possible, get the car's VIN from the seller and contact Volkswagen Ireland with it to check its warranty status.