Expert answer

Hi Danny,

Extra load tyres are not usually needed on regular cars - they're usually found on people carriers etc. However, some tyre sizes are only available in 'XL' format so they're found on cars where that part of the tyre's specification is not strictly required. They tend to have stiffer sidewalls and are hence often used on low profile tyres. A car manufacturer may also specify this as part of how they want the car to drive on the road.

If that doesn't clear up your query please do come back to us.

Expert answer

Hi Andrew,

You're in an enviable position. I'm going to go on the assumption that four-wheel drive is a must-have (though a rear-wheel drive car on winter tyres is as good as a 4x4 without in terms of stopping and changing direction as well as traction...) and given your comment on fuel we'll say it has to be diesel too. Don't worry, there's still fun to be had.

The 3.0 TDI V6 engine found in certain Audi A6s and A8s is a gem and partnered with quattro four-wheel drive seems made for you. The equivalent rear-wheel drive BMWs are a little more engaging, and the 330d/530d's engine is also fantastic, though we suspect you want four-wheel drive. Try a 535d out for size and you might change your mind and invest in winter tyres instead!

As much as we admire the X5 and Touareg, and they're good value on the used market at the minute, we can't help but feel they'll be just as difficult to sell on in a few years.

Another excellent alternative to the (quite common) Audi A6 is the allroad quattro version, based on the A6 Avant. Seems to tick all the boxes.

Let us know if we're on the right track here.

Expert answer

Hi Eoin,

We spoke to Volkswagen Ireland and unfortunately the aftermarket brochure does not have have that option. It may be possible to find a second-hand item and have a mechanic fit it, but it'd have to be someone very good.

Sorry to not have better news for you.

Expert answer

Hi Lorraine,

The 1.6-litre TDI engine is available in either 85- or 105hp outputs both of which have an official combined cycle consumption figure of 4.5 litres/100km (62.8mpg). The 105hp version is also available in BlueMotion trim with its longer gearing, unique bodystyling and other tweaks allowing for fuel consumption of 3.8 litres/100km (74. mpg). By way of comparision the 140hp 2.0-litre TDI Golf returns 4.8 litres/100km - or 58.9mpg in old money.

So while less powerful the 1.6 TDI is more efficient. All of the 1.6 variants also qualify for Band A tax of €160 whereas the 2.0 TDI is Band B, costing €225 annually. 

Just to throw a spanner into the works; over shorter journeys like the ones you outline a petrol powered model may actually prove to be more economical due to the time it takes a diesel engine to heat up and reach ideal operating temperature. And of course it will be cheaper to buy in the first place.

If you would like to discuss this further let us know. 

Expert answer

Hi James,

I believe you're referring to the issue with sudden loss of oil pressure due at times to the gear on the balancer shaft failing. Our research leads us to conclude that this issue was sorted before the Tiguan went into production, but to make sure, we can send your car's details to Volkswagen to check the records.

So, send us a message via the site with your registration plate for a start. We won't publish it.

Expert answer

Hi Adrian,

There's no doubt that premium cars of this age can come with costly repair bills. The older they get the more likely something will go wrong, no matter how reliable they are in general. The example you're looking at already has quite high mileage so we'd say budget for a grand or so of repairs a year just in case.

This generation of the A4 was reliable enough. Most problems seem to have stemmed from heating and cooling systems (in particular the air conditioning) and electrics so thoroughly inspect the car - preferably with a bit of professional help. Ensure that the gearbox (assuming it's manual) is smooth and noise-free and that there is no clonking from the front suspension.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi John,

The most sensible for the majority of buyers is the 1.6 TDI 105hp. This is smooth, quiet, torquey enough to not feel slow and very economical.

Despite all that our preference would be the more expensive (and noisier) 2.0 TDI 140, as it feels substantially quicker.

Best bet is to test drive as many as possible, as you're bound to have a preference - within budget of course.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Noel,

As much as we dislike these, we've not heard of many problems with their reliability - other than early systems from Jaguar.

You could argue that every extra electronic sub-system is a cause for worry, but the modern car is already full of such devices.

Expert answer

Hi Jimmy,

Basically: no; this car has so far proven to be very reliable. Some people don't get on with the DSG automatic, though there are aftermarket experts that'll recalibrate it for you. Also, brake wear can be high so check for that, tyre condition and that it has been properly serviced.

Enjoy!

Expert answer

Hi Ian,

We spoke to Ford and Volkswagen representatives in Ireland and the UK to get some answers. Seems there's no firm information on either as yet. If the Golf Plus goes ahead it'll not be in right-hand drive markets until 2014, though there may well be a proper Golf-badged MPV instead.

Ford is pretty tight-lipped on the EcoSport pictured above. It's under consideration. We're at a Ford future event in September where further announcements may be made so keep an eye on the site for news.