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 Christopher,

First things first: go for automatic. The fuel economy won't be as good, but there are far more on the market and the manual version retains the foot-operated parking brake, which is madness. It should return about 35mpg.

In general it's a reliable car, though check all electrics and if the gearbox is jerky walk away. Also listen out for suspension knocks. Insist on a full service history or find a car that has it.

Hope that all helps.

Expert answer

Hi Robbie,

Replicas of GTIs appeal to a minority of buyers so it's a tricky car to value. It may be worth a little more than a standard 1.6 the a few people, but your biggest challenge is to find those people, as someone looking for the basic car may be put off by the add-ons.

Sorry to not be of more assistance.

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Hi Michellle,

You've not told us what version of the Zafira you're looking at, but you should know that the basic 1.6-litre petrol engine is a little gutless and the base spec cars a little spartan inside. However, the interior of the Zafira is cleverly designed and great for family use. Check the service history carefully, as cambelts require regular changes (where fitted). Other than that, make sure all the seats move as they should, that the spare wheel is underneath at the back and that there's no damp in the cabin.

I know several happy owners of these cars.

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 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 Anne,

The Corolla Verso has proven to be mechanically sound so no issues there to worry about and as the model you're considering is at the end of that model's life it should have none of the teething bugs. It's worth checking that the airbags have been checked according to an early recall (if it affects this car) though as they had an issue.

This isn't especially high mileage for such a car, but have it checked mechanically by an expert.

Hope that helps.

Expert answer

Hi Komal,

The X-Trail of that age in general is a fine car. The two-wheel drive versions are the most economical and all are generally reliable. However, the 2.0-litre petrol engine is not the best option as it's a little gutless. Wouldn't worry about the mileage, but perhaps look around for a diesel.

Also, if four-wheel drive is not a priority perhaps consider something less 4x4 looking?

Expert answer

Hi Michael,

We've not heard anything about this one to be honest, but that doesn't mean it's not a problem! Since 2008 the vast majority of the Zafiras sold have been diesel so there are not many petrol versions around now.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Philip,

That generation of Ford Mondeo was fitted with timing chains so no need to worry.

Hope that helps