Expert answer

Hi Patrick,

We have a lot of experience with this car actually. Both Neil and I ran Exeo saloons as long term test cars for a while, and I also had the ST estate for nearly a year.

I definitely preferred the estate in terms of looks and though it had more space in the boot, the Exeo saloon isn't bad at all in that regard. You probably know that it's essentially a previous generation Audi A4, down to the interior switchgear and engines. That's no bad thing of course, as the Audi was a premium model at the time, though it does mean that the Exeo feels dated in places.

Nonetheless, it is solidly built and everything works well. The TDI diesel engines are well-proven and particularly satisfying when specified in conjunction with the CVT automatic gearbox. They're not the most refined engines on the market, but good performers and pretty economical too.

Note that rear legroom isn't all that great, though it was improved in the latest versions.

Overall, if you can get the Exeo for a good price then you're buying a dependable car that is below most people's radar.

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Hi Kevin,

It depends. Are you talking about the older model of Sharan, the one that was shared with the old Ford Galaxy? If so, then it’s simply down to the fact that, at the time, automatic gearbox technology was not as advanced, and they tended to be more thirsty than an equivalent manual gearbox.

If it’s the newer model you’re talking about (the current-shape one, with sliding side doors) then it could be that the DSG automatic needs servicing. It requires more intensive care and attention than a manual gearbox, and if it’s left alone it can malfunction, which could affect economy.

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Hi Gary,

Automatic small cars are generally a bit hard to come by in Ireland, but I suggest a MINI One or First. Unlike some other small cars, the MINI's auto box is a sophisticated ZF unit and it's as much fun to drive as the manual. €5-7,000 picks you up a good one.

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Hi Conor,

You've not told us which model it is, which might help us get a better answer for you, but we do know that the automatic transmission in the E60/E61 5 Series suffers from oil leaks. It may be that your gearbox has a problem because of that.

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Hi Jackie,

Yes, it is highly likely that a 2008 bumper would fit your 2007 Corsa. The gearbox has no bearing on it, but if the 2008 donor is from a three-door model it's worth comparing them as closely as possible.

Expert answer

Hi Patrick,

I've just recently driven the BMW 318d GT with an automatic gearbox in Irish specification (Luxury to be exact) on Irish roads and it's a fabulously comfortable car. It feels (and is) hugely spacious inside and in the boot too. Surprisingly, it's quite different to drive and in character to both the 3 Series saloon and Touring estate. It's even more comfortable on the road and more refined. However, if you're coming from one of those cars and you like how they drive you may not appreciate the reduced 'sharpness' in the dynamics. Most people won't care though and they'll relish the comfort.

The 318d engine seems to cope well enough with the car's weight and the eight-speed automatic transmission is a gem.

Which version are you considering?

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Hi Basil,

You shouldn't have any major problems. The Exeo is basically an old-shape Audi A4, updated to keep it going into a new life as a SEAT so all of the components have been used and proved for a long time now. There certainly aren't any problems with the car common enough to warrant reporting and SEATs tend to be very reliable and solid.

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Hi Ian,

There are a couple of alternatives to the Q7 alright. The Land Rover Discovery is probably the best all-round seven-seat SUV on the market and easily matches the Q7 for driver appeal, cabin space and premium image. The only problem is that Land Rover is still working its way up from a low point in terms of reliability, and while the current Disco is certainly very well built, we'd reckon that a Q7 would be a little bit better in terms of reliability when you're talking about a car that's already a few years old.

In fact, we know of only two issues with the Q7. One, it's apparently quite hard on tyres and two, if it's got an electric tailgate, it can open or close with a mind of its own sometimes, although that should have been fixed in a recall by now.

You could go for a BMW X5 with seven seats, but there's not as much space in the third row in the BMW, so it depends on what you need those extra chairs for. If it's only for occasional use, for kids etc, then the X5 is well worth a look and is a fantastic car to drive. If you need to put adults back there, stick with the Audi. You could downsize to a Hyundai Santa Fe seven-seater of course, which is a reliable, affordable choice but lacking both third row space and the cachet of the Audi.

Or you could steer away from the SUV world altogether and get a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate with the extra rear-facing seats in the boot. Bit of an unsung hero that one, and much cheaper to run than a big 4x4. Or, of course, you could do the whole off-roader thing properly and get a long wheelbase Land Rover Defender, but you'll need ear plugs for long journeys.

Choosing between a 2007 or a 2008 Audi Q7 is all down to the price and the individual car. There was a facelift in 2009 that brought some engine updates and cabin and styling changes, but if you can find a good 2007 one, with a full Audi service history, you could be looking at paying as little as €20k. A Q7 for the price of a new Ford Focus? Not bad...

Let us know which way you go

Expert answer

Hi David,

It's a pretty solidly built car the A4 Cab, but just avoid the 1.8T petrol engine as apparently it gives no end of trouble, and watch for clogging fuel fillers on the diesel models if you're doing low mileages. Clutch problems are also not unheard of, and check carefully for any signs of oil leaks in the engine bay. The good news is that because it has a folding cloth (not steel) roof there are no reported problems with an overly-complicated roof mechanism.

Expert answer

Hi Jim,

Well, the rule is never buy on mileage or even age, but only on condition and history. If the higher mileage car has been better cared for, and has a fully-stamped up service history, then it could well be just as good as the older but lower mileage one. Basically, take both for a thorough test drive and see which one 'feels younger.' If one has had a hard life, and the other an easy one, it should be pretty apparent which is the better purchase. 

Same goes for the 5 Series, but try not to get the less desirable manual. You may pay more for an auto now but it will be worth it come resale time.

Let us know how you get on