Expert answer

Hi Tina,

There's not a lot to choose between them in terms of overall pricing or cost of ownership, but we'd go for the 1.6 diesel simply because it suits the car better and the extra torque on offer makes it a more relaxing drive, especially on the motorway.

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Hi Graham,

It depends which model you are referring to. Our records show the following:

- RAV4 2.0 VVT-i (petrol) automatic: 212g/km - Band F, €1,200 per annum

- RAV4 2.0 VVT-i (petrol) manual: 202g/km - Band F, €1,200 per annum

- RAV4 2.2 D-4D (diesel) manual: 173g/km - Band E, €750 per annum

Come back to us if it's something else and we'll look into it.

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Hi Mark,

The more recent versions of the Renault Grand Scenic are at least reasonably reliable, and the commonly-seen 1.5-litre diesel engine is a sold enough old lump, and well proven in various Nissans and Renaults. The recurring nightmare is that of electrical problems. Renaults, older ones at any rate, just seem to eat through their cabling and wiring and everything from electric windows to engine management and injection problems can crop up. Buy very, very carefully if you're looking at  anything older than 2008.

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Hi Ann,

Yeah, you might just scrape into a 2012 model in either car but to be fair, though rolling back to a 2011 or even a 2010 (assuming that condition and history are OK) isn't really going to be any hardship. As for the C4 Picasso, well it's a very, very different type of car altogether - a big, spacious family MPV rather than a low-slung sports saloon. They're nice and comfy, but won't be as well built as either of the German cars.

If it were our choice to make, we'd go with the Audi - comfy, decent to drive and reliable.

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Hi Aoife,

We asked Toyota Ireland what it thought would be reasonable oil consumption, and though you haven't told us the age of your car it was suggested that a rate of a quarter litre of oil per 1,000 kilometres was normal. Toyota suggested that, if you suspect there is an issue, bring the car to a dealer and as for an oil consumption test to be carried out.

Hope that helps

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Hi Des,

If you mean the new model, which was introduced in the summer of 2013, then it's generally excellent. Gorgeous to look at (well, we think so anyway) with a fantastic interior, lots of space and excellent economy from the familiar 1.6-litre diesel engine. Citroen's build quality has greatly improved over the past few years, so you shouldn't have any major reliability worries and it's an immensely comfortable car in which to do long journeys. Here's our Irish road test of the five-seat model.

If you're talking about the previous generation then there are a couple of points to keep an eye on. The 1.6 diesel has a habit of developing problems, usually with the turbo's exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve. It's a relatively easy fix but it can be pricey so shop around for quotes. Buy as recent a car as you can, as Citroen was constantly improving the build quality as the car developed. Avoid the automatic EGS gearbox - it's awful to drive with and can develop problems with the clutch. Check the cabin very carefully for loose or rattling trim and inspect the bumpers, especially the enormous one-piece front bumper, for any damage - they can be hugely expensive to repair.

Expert answer

Hi Sharon,

I always think an estate is better for a two-kid family, rather than going for the styling and dynamic compromises an MPV forces upon you. A good idea for that kind of budget might be to upgrade to a more recent Focus Estate. A budget of €6k would get you a high-ish mileage 2008 version with the 1.6-litre diesel engine, which will cost you buttons to run - an easy 58mpg.

It's spacious and comfy and as long as you like your current Focus you won't go wrong. Looking for more of a change? How about a Kia cee'd SW 1.6 diesel EX? Again, cheap to run, really reliable and lots of room in the boot for buggies etc. A cracking family car, that one. Fancy something a bit more rugged? Maybe try a Nissan X-Trail, front-wheel drive with the 150hp 2.0-litre diesel engine. A really terrific car that, but obviously it will be more expensive to run than a smaller estate.

As for trade-in on your Focus, I'm afraid I wouldn't expect too much. Probably only about €1,000 to €1,500.

Expert answer

Hi Mary,

Short answer, no. The CR-V is one of the most roomy and spacious SUVs around. In fact it makes you wonder quite if other car makers realise that the U in SUV stands for Utility...

The X3 is a typical BMW product - handsome, slick and terrific to drive, but there have been reports of troubles with the turbocharger on the older 2.0 diesel engines and the interior is surprisingly tight, especially if you're carrying kids - it's all but impossible to get three child seats across the back row. 

Why not check out the new CR-V instead? It's a really solid product, just as spacious as ever. Or, if you want a change of brand, have a good long look at the Hyundai Santa Fe - cracking car, that.

What do you think?

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Hi Michael,

Split decision; if it's a 9-3 running the 1.9 diesel then it's actually quite nice, if a little clunky compared to more modern cars. 

If it's a 9-5 then yes, run. Terribly unreliable car.

Expert answer

Hi Rob,

Hmmm. The bikes bit makes this awkward - assuming you mean adult bikes, not kids'. You could try a Skoda Fabia Combi, but to be honest, I'm not sure that two bikes would fit easily in the back, even with the seats folded. Your best bet could be a decent diesel hatchback and a really good bike rack for the boot.