Which new exec diesel auto saloon to go for?
What compact exec would you choose in a diesel auto as a private buyer? BMW 320d M Sport, Audi A4 S tronic, Jaguar XE Portfolio or Mercedes-Benz C-Class? Or would you go with something cheaper like a Volkswagen Passat Highline DSG 190?
Andrew Kelly (Limerick)Jan 2016 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Andrew,
Well, of the posh-badge brigade, my personal favourite is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class - it's supremely comfy, beautifully made and really satisfying to drive, but, to be honest, you couldn't go wrong with any of those cars, it really is down to personal taste.
Your other question is an interesting one though. If you can live without the posh badge, and aren't quite so worried about driving dynamics, then a Skoda Superb is pretty much unbeatable. Same mechanical make up as the Audi but far bigger and way better value. Try a Ford Mondeo or Mazda6 if you want something with a keen chassis or a Toyota Avensis if you never, ever want it to break.
Some relevant reviews for you:
Ford B-Max or Nissan Juke?
Ford B-Max versus Nissan Juke?
Nigel Naughton (Castlebar)Jan 2016 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Nigel,
Two totally different cars so they're quite hard to compare. The B-Max is small but spacious, and those sliding side doors make it very handy in tight parking spaces, but it's slow and not much fun to drive. The Juke is far more striking to look at (perhaps even a bit ugly?) and more engaging to drive, but space in the back and boot is really quite poor.
Relevant reviews:
Is the Toyota RAV4 worth the price?
Hi,
I want to trade in my 2008 Ford Focus diesel for a new or nearly new car. I really like the SUV style. I drive at least 1,000km per week to and from work so I need something that's reliable, will hold its value and able for big mileage. I really like the Toyota RAV4, but is it worth the price?
What car would you suggest?
Joanne Stafford (Wexford)Dec 2015 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Joanne,
The RAV4 is most definitely worth the price, and it's one of the best cars Toyota currently makes - spacious, reliable and not at all bad to drive. Worth looking at the Nissan Qashqai and Renault Kadjar too, as well as the Skoda Yeti and Mazda CX-5. You won't go wrong with any of those choices, but given your high mileage take a very close look at the Renault and the Nissan - they'll be the most economical overall.
Relevant reviews:
What's the new Toyota RAV4 like?
What's the new Toyota RAV4 like?
Declan Dore (Tralee)Dec 2015 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Declan,
Really good actually. Nice to drive (surprisingly sharp steering), lots of space and as with every Toyota it feels built to withstand a tactical nuclear strike. A really competent car. Here's a fuller review...
What happens with a late registration?
This is my supplementary question to Neil Briscoe regarding VRT on classic cars. Thank you for following up Neil. Regarding the fact that the car in question has been in Ireland since 2006 without being registered, will this mean that a surcharge will apply on registering the car now due to the lateness of that registration?
Many thanks again
James
James Edwards (Tullow)Dec 2015 Filed under: classic cars
Expert answer
Hi James,
Well, the rule says that when a vehicle is imported it must be booked for an NCT inspection and VRT valuation within seven days of its arrival in the state. The process of registration and payment must then be completed within 30 days of arrival.
Now, it's just possible that there may be a a valid reason why this car hasn't been registered, or it may have been declared off the road at the time of entry. I think you need to get on to your local tax office and ask for help with this though as there could well be a fine in the offing, never mind a surcharge.
What do you think of the 2016 Hyundai i30?
What is your opinion on the 2016 Hyundai i30 1.6 diesel?
Pat Kelly (Clonmel Co Tipperary)Dec 2015 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Pat,
Really good car. Not the most exciting thing in the world perhaps but frugal, spacious and reliable. Our review of the 2012 Hyundai i30 gives you a good idea of what to expect, though the 2016 version has been upgraded a little.
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander worth a look?
We are looking for a seven seater to replace our 2005 Land Rover Discovery. The tax needs to be less and I see the Outlander looks good in that respect. Are there any PCP deals available on cars of this type?
Louise Phillips (Dalkey)Dec 2015 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Louise,
Yup, the Outlander is a cracking car (although you'll have to accept that it's not as spacious as the Discovery) and Mitsubishi does indeed have PCP plans available. Your local dealer will have all the details.
Read our review of the Mitsubishi Outlander
Kia Sorento vs. Hyundai Santa Fe please!
Do the new Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe drive exactly the same when driven on Irish twisty back roads, or has one better handling? I live in Killarney.
Tim O'Mahoney (Killarney)Nov 2015 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Tim,
Nope, they don't. The Kia is noticeably softer and has a nicer ride quality. It's not a lot less precise than the Hyundai though, which is a little stiffer and sportier, so given the rough roads in and around Killarney, I'd recommend the Kia.
Relevant reviews:
When do we see the new DS 4 in Ireland?
When is the new DS 4 expected to hit showrooms here and will CompleteCar.ie be doing a review?
Patrick
Patrick Megan (Dun Laoghaire)Nov 2015 Filed under: future cars
Expert answer
Hi Patrick,
The new DS 4 will be in Irish showrooms in time for the price announcement on December 10. We will be driving it on January 14, 2016, so keep an eye on our Car Reviews page for the first Irish drive.
I need a small, reliable commuting car.
Hello, looking for a small, economical, reliable car for commuting. I currently have a 1.0-litre Nissan Micra. I do 110km a day, 5-6 days a week.
What would you recommend?
Elaine Henry (Sligo)Nov 2015 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi Elaine,
You're kind of on the cusp of being better off with a diesel with that kind of mileage. There are a few cars that are worth looking at. Sticking with petrol? Try a Honda Jazz - small but very spacious, and the 1.2-litre engine is pretty frugal. Want to go for a small diesel? Try a Volkswagen Polo. Want something a little more fun, but still very frugal (albeit not very roomy in the back)? Try a MINI Cooper D.