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 Mike,

BMW set the X3 up to send its engine output to the rear wheels unless slip is detected. It should then send torque to the front wheels as well. It's not instantaneous, but it should be visibly happening in the situation you've described.

Just make sure that the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is not switched off, as this can apply the brakes to a spinning wheel, with the effect of sending torque to the others. The BMW X3's all-wheel-drive system does not have any locking differential so the wheel with the least resistance will get all the drive torque.

If you haven't already, we'd strongly recommend switching to winter tyres at this time of year.

Expert answer

Hi David,

First up, the Mokka has comfortable suspension, so it will be good from that point of view. The three-cylinder petrol engine has plenty of go in 136hp guise, and it's mated to a six-speed gearbox so it shouldn't be too audible, even at higher motorway speeds. It can be a little loud getting up to speed, but fine when cruising.

One thing to watch out for is that the GS version you mention rides on bigger wheels than the lesser models in the lineup. That means lower-profile tyres, which are likely wider as well. This can certainly add to road noise at speed.

And, while the Mokka is above average in terms of refinement on the motorway for its class, it is still a relatively cheap-and-cheerful small car, and you can't expect it to be as civil as larger and more expensive ones at higher speeds.

The best advice we can give you is to take one for an extended test drive, including motorway speeds on a variety of road surfaces - and make sure the stereo is off and anyone with you is quiet so you can assess if it meets your needs.

Expert answer

Hi Nicholas, 

No it does not. It has special 'run-flat' tyres designed to get you to a tyre fitter in the case of a puncture.

Expert answer

Hi Stephen,

To be honest, there'll be a huge gulf between the cars because they're 14 years apart. Your Citroen's suspension and bushings etc will be quite worn, no matter how much work it has had done, while the Dacia will feel tight, rattle-free and sharp to drive (in a good way). The Bigster will have far superior road holding where the Citroen feels 'loose', though the latter could mean more comfort in some circumstances.

The Bigster's steering will feel more responsive, as will the brakes and the engine. The Bigster should have superior wind and road noise suppression and with brand-new tyres it should be better in wet weather as well.

Finally, the Bigster has all the latest driver assistance technology that is vastly superior to that of your Citroen, in theory making it a safer car.

Expert answer

Hi Martin,

There's no doubt that the 20-inch wheels and their lower-profile tyres come with a compromise to ride comfort – assuming the car isn't on air suspension. But it might be a compromise you're willing to make for the style. Bear in mind that it is easier to kerb bigger wheels, generally, and that the tyres are likely to be costlier as well. I recommend you test drive examples of both for yourself to make the call.

And yes, Mercedes leather is treated at the factory with a polymer finish to help with wear, tear and staining.

Expert answer

Hi Michael,

New Audi prices may be the same across all its dealers, but each and every one of them will do deals differently, especially when there's a trade-in involved. No harm shopping around.

We know that Audi has an extended warranty, and it's briefly mentioned on Audi Ireland's website, but there's no further information about its cost that we can see. We've sent a message to our contact there to get an answer on that one for you. We'd certainly advocate for extended warranties on high-end cars.

Finally, only you can decide on which of the A6 Sportback e-trons you like, but do you need to absolutely max out the range you can get from the car? Enough to live without the reassurance of quattro four-wheel drive? If so, then perhaps invest in a set of winter tyres and wheels to use when you need them.

I'd just go for the quattro and accept it won't be quite as efficient.

Expert answer

Hi Phil,

On the Irish market, the M Sport model rides on 18-inch alloy wheels while the Sport version is on 17-inch rims with higher-profile tyres. As standard they both get the same suspension, but the tyres will make the M Sport model feel 'firmer' on the road for sure. 

Expert answer

Hi Martin,

I wouldn't say the market is being flooded with these cars - demand is still far outstripping supply. 

For the most part, these cars represent good value, but go into the deal with your eyes open. If at all possible, get someone in the know to take a detailed look around the car you're looking at, to make sure it's in good condition and that it's identical to a European-market model. 

I'd insist that the car was serviced on Irish soil before taking delivery, and make sure the tyres are ok as well, as these cars could have spent quite a bit of time at sea and at docks here in Japan.

Other than that, check out your insurance before you commit to buying, as insurers can be a little odd about imports at times. 

Expert answer

Hi John Paul,

You’re dead right in that four-wheel-drive EVs are currently rather expensive — the best value ones around at the moment are the Volkswagen ID.4 GTX, the Skoda Enyaq Sportline iV 80x and the Tesla Model 3 Long Range, all of which are in the region of €57,000 to €59.000.  Which is quite a lot of money, even if all three are excellent cars.

If you want to go front-wheel drive, but keep the SUV body shape, then there are still some very good options all the same. The Kia e-Niro, the Kia e-Soul and the Hyundai Kona Electric all share the same battery, electric motor and front-wheel-drive platform, and all are excellent cars. The Niro is fractionally the more practical, the Soul arguably the best to drive and the Kona a pretty good compromise between the two.

Or you could try the MG ZS if you want something a bit cheaper, but bear in mind that a new, longer-range model is coming in the new year that will bump up its price from €28,995 to €31,000. 

Mind you, you’ve said you’re happy to put winter tyres on, and this should really bring the various rear-wheel-drive models back into play. With the right tyres, and given the hefty two-tonne weight of larger models such as the ID.4 and Enyaq, you’re unlikely to experience any major traction issues, so don’t count those models out.