Expert answer

Hi Lins,

We're big fans of the Mazda5 in general. That model is well-equipped and lovely to drive. Make sure you go for a 2.0-litre diesel instead of the 1.8-litre petrol to keep your running costs down.

Hope that helps.

Expert answer

Hi Daniel,

You've not told us which of the Insignia diesels you're looking at, and whether you're buying new or used, but in general Opel's diesel options in the Insignia are a little on the loud side. However, they all give good performance and economy, and the latest come with stop-start.

Come back to us if you need more detail than that

Expert answer

Hi David,

That's a tricky one to answer accurately. It really depends on the dealer you bring the car to. There's undoubtedly a real lack of good second-hand cars so dealers do want such things, but the Impreza Diesel is, as you say, quite rare.

We reckon your expectations are fairly realistic, especially if you are happy to go into a dealer right now for a 2012-plate car. New car sales are slow at this time of year. Aim a little higher than that and try a few Opel dealers.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Trish,

We don't know your budget or the year of car you're looking at, but assuming it's a 2009 model and that you're looking at diesel versions for better economy, the Toyota and Mazda both have better reliability records and decent economy, though the Opel has higher economy figures - especially if you can find a 1.7 CDTi diesel for your budget. Unfortunately, the diesel Zafiras can be problematic.

Come back to us with more details if you'd like advice on a specific car.

Expert answer

Hi Alan,

We spoke to Nissan Ireland today and it was confirmed that the 1.6 dCi engine is currently only available with four-wheel drive. It does plan to sell the front-wheel drive only model, but could not give us pricing or even a launch date. We'll be told more at the end of this year.

Keep an eye on our site for news on that.

Expert answer

Hi Dermot,

This doesn't appear to be very good value to us. Even though your Passat is probably only worth €1,000 or so to the dealer, the mileage of the Santa Fe is above average and the price is therefore quite optimistic - though clearly the service, tyres and NCT make it considerable more appealing.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Sinead,

Before tackling the diesel issue, the Nissan Qashqai is a fine car. It's a little bigger than the Golf and feels it because of the higher driving position and larger boot. In general it has proved to be a reliable car with only a few minor issues cropping up.

The 1.5 dCi diesel is a good choice of engine, though if you really do stick to Dublin and its environs it may be worth considering the cheaper 1.6-litre petrol instead. It's a shame Nissan doesn't currently have a smaller capacity turbocharged alternative, as that would be a great option. The diesel car will be more economical for sure.

Hope that helps.

Expert answer

Hi John,

I'm afraid that generation of the Freelander was very troublesome, though the diesel is the best option. Listen out for noises from the rear differential and gearbox and check that every single electrical switch and light is working as it should be.

A 1.9-litre diesel from 2001 would normally be €660, but commercial vehicle tax is currently only €310 per annum.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Eamon,

To us that seems like an unfair comparison given the price gap between the two, as the newer car will be far fresher in every way - but so it should be at that price. We'd be slow to recommend the older diesel Clio purely because of the mileage it has accrued already - and you plan on doing above average annual mileage on top of that. It would definitely start costing you money and, worse, could be out of action while being repaired - which would be a massive inconvenience.

In pure overall cost terms it might win out (taking into consideration the purchase price as well), but even so our advice would be to go with the petrol model - or look at alternative diesel options. There's a lot of choice out there.

Let us know if you want help finding something suitable.

Expert answer

Hi Maria,

I'm afraid such a car is not likely to be worth very much. That's very high mileage no matter how well it has been kept and hence will not be in demand. If you get €500 for it we'd be very surprised.

Best of luck