By Paul Gover.
Q: I’m looking at purchasing a Holden Commodore for my son, less than $20,000 and 100,000 kilometres, although I think a Toyota would be better long-term value.
Should I purchase an Evoke with the smaller 3.0-litre motor or an SV6 with the 3.6-litre motor.
I’ve heard that the evoke can have drive train issues.
Des C.
A: If it’s his first car then definitely go for a Toyota Camry, because it’s easier to handle and cheaper to run. If you must have a Commodore, the 3-litre engine is fine and you should go for the final VF model.
Q: I need to get a new small car – basically for travel to and from work.
So was looking at the Toyota Yaris, Kia or Hyundai i20?
Which would you pick or would you recommend something else?
Kong C.
A: The Koreans are better for value and I would go for a Kia Cerato.
Q: I am a very happy owner of a Mazda 6 Touring wagon.
Are you aware if Mazda is going to bring out a new-look model Mazda6 next year or will the vehicle in essence be the same with just a few “tweaks” here and there?
I am aware that a new CX-30 is coming during 2020 but am curious about the Mazda6 as this is quite obviously my vehicle of choice.
Merle K.
A: There will only be a minor update for 2020. The CX-30 is smaller and a completely new model from Mazda.
Q: Could you please give me your opinion and views on the Renault Koleos Zen two-wheel drive auto petrol?
Reg H.
A: Nice car. Under-appreciated. But test drive it back-to-back with the VW Tiguan, which is my benchmark in that size and price class.
Q: My daughter owns a 15 year old Suzuki Swift which has done well in excess of 150,000 kilometres and she likes the size and manual transmission.
But it has reached its economic repair life, so she is looking for a new one. She would like to hang out until maybe March April next year in the hope of getting a then 2019 at a better price.
Craig F.
A: The best time to buy will be in January, when the cars built in 2018 become a year older and are usually cleared at better prices.
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