Expert answer

Hi Henry,

We did review the KGM Torres EVX when it was first introduced in 2024. Read that review here.

The vehicle itself isn't terrible, but there are so many better options on the market at the same price that we'd be slow to recommend it.

Expert answer

Hi Ps,

Unfortunately, the MGS9 PHEV is not coming to Ireland, which is a big shame.

Seven-seaters are rare in general here, unless you're talking about big, expensive SUVs, though we have heard a rumour that BYD might well be planning something for next year.

The best, most affordable alternatives are things like the Kia PV5 Passenger, which is now available with seven seats.

Expert answer

Hi Carol,

You'll struggle to get a premium-badge model from 2024 on for that budget so we'll focus on hybrid SUVs instead, which are plentiful.

In fact, if the year really matters to you, there are even a few new-car options open to you, including the Dacia Duster and MG ZS.

Go back to 2025 and others to consider are the Nissan Juke and Ford Puma, or you may find the more spacious Renault Arkana as well.

If size matters, you will probably have to go back to 2024, and an excellent choice would be the Nissan Qashqai e-Power, or even the Hyundai Kona Hybrid if you can find one.

Here are our reviews of those cars to help you decide, but do come back to us if you need help in narrowing things down further, and always take the time to test drive as many cars as you can yourself:

Dacia Duster Hybrid review

MG ZS Hybrid+ review

Nissan Juke Hybrid review

Ford Puma reviews

Renault Arkana reviews

Nissan Qashqai reviews

Hyundai Kona Hybrid review

Expert answer

Hi Margaret,

Both are fantastic cars, but the EV2 definitely has a higher 'hip point', meaning you sit higher up and it's easier to get in and out of it. The Kia is also a fraction more comfortable on the road.

But... if you like the Renault 5, you should really check out the Renault 4 EV as well, as you sit up higher in that and it shares a lot with the 5.

Either way, make sure you go and test drive both cars to get a feel for them - and we'd massively appreciate a (private) message via the Contact Us page to let us know which one you go for.

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

Volkswagen ID.4 reviews

Expert answer

Hi Noel,

The Comfort and Design models come with synthetic black leather, while Excellence version gets actual leather upholstery. The latter can be black or 'Tahiti blue'.

Make sure you check out our detailed review of the BYD Sealion 7.

Expert answer

Hi Elaine,

Those cars are remarkably well-matched in terms of performance and interior space. They're both comfortable enough on the motorway and easy to drive around town as well. There's very little to choose between them.

While we do prefer the exterior appearance and interior design of the Dacia, the Opel does come with a longer warranty, so if you're planning on keeping the car for a long time that is certainly a factor to consider. Saying that, Dacia's cars are generally quite durable so we'd not be overly worried about it.

For us, the Duster just edges it, so I recommend you take both for as long a test drive as you can, including some motorway driving, to see which you prefer. 

And do us a favour - drop us a (private) message via the Contact Us page to let us know which you go for and why.

Expert answer

Hi John,

In terms of preference, I'd have a strong one for the Hyundai. It's a far more polished driving experience and it has a far more sensible interior layout that doesn't rely entirely on a touchscreen. Along with that, there's the back up of a full dealer network and Hyundai's strong warranty.

On paper, of course, the Tesla's stats are impressive as it's quicker accelerating, has a longer range on a charge and has a larger boot, but none of those things are enough to convince me it's the one to have in this comparison. 

Best advice I can offer is to go and test drive both for yourself and see what you think. Please do let us know what you think (in private) by submitting a message via the Contact Us page.

Expert answer

Hi Ciara,

We need the CO₂ rating to determine the motor tax.

According to our data, that car's original CO₂ rating would have been 176g/km, but that was on the old "NEDC" system and when a car is imported into Ireland now its CO₂ figure is 'uplifted' by Revenue to align it with the newer WLTP scheme. Doing that would raise your ASX's rating to 197g/km, which would mean motor tax of €790 each year.

The importation paperwork should have shown which CO₂ rating the car now has according to Revenue so you can check it. If it's not the above figure, look up the motor tax on our Motor Road Tax Prices in Ireland Explained feature or come back to us if you have other questions.

Expert answer

Hi Diana and thanks for this message.

I'm a little perplexed by it though as we quite strongly believe that hybrids are not electric cars and should not be classified as such. The latest SIMI figures on this page state a 52 per cent increase in the number of EV registrations, and that is indeed fully electric cars. That figure does not include hybrids of any sort.