By Paul Gover.
Q: I’m keen to look at an EV as I’ve had the Lexus Hybrid CT200h for a few years, and been quite happy, however am keen to look at a fully EV.
What would your recommendations be?
I’m after a sedan that isn’t too expensive and I don’t drive much more than 200 kilometres per week.
Danielle B
A: I hope you have a big budget. Best EV choice with a Lexus already in the garage would be the new Mini E, which is fully electric, compact, but not cheap at $59,900 and you’ll need to move fast to get one. Otherwise, the Hyundai Kona electric would be runner-up.
Q: I only drive my 2002 Hyundai Accent once a fortnight to the supermarket and back, a total of 14 kilometres.
I have full tank of fuel and wonder if unleaded petrol goes off.
The next time I put petrol in the car could be 2 months or more.
Michael S
A: Yes, petrol goes ’sour’, but it takes years and not weeks or even months.
Q: My grand-daughter, who lives with us (17 years going 30), wishes to purchase a Renault Megane 2001 convertible.
She’s a learner driver, the car has 190,000 on the clock and appears in good condition, with everything working for $3800.00.
What is your opinion? What should I look out for.? Are they expensive to service/repair?
As it will be her first car, is it safe ?
Mick L
A: Really? She loves the look, I’m sure. But as a parent there are far smarter and safer choices. And they are not cheap to fix. Please remember to get her a safe driving course with a company like Murcotts in Melbourne.
Q: What would you suggest as a good secondhand delivery vehicle to buy and use to drive for a company like Toll?
It would be for use around town.
Mark D
A: I would go for a Hyundai iLoad. Not as well known as similar Toyota models, but solid and good value, also probably with some factory warranty if you buy one less than five years old.
Q: My wife is currently driving a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder but the kids are getting older and we no longer require such a big car.
She likes the height of an SUV, but would like to downsize.
She’s looking for something not that old but around the $25,000 mark secondhand, but still a mid-sized SUV.
What would you suggest?
Daryl D
A: With that budget, I’d go for a near-new Kia Sportage. But … you could also probably look at a new Hyundai Kona. Both are good cars and great value.
Q: I currently have a Mazda CX-9 which had done 315,000 kilometres.
I really enjoy driving it and feel extremely comfortable with the seats. The only issue is the fuel economy.
I am looking at updating and wanted your opinion of the CX-8 diesel, as I drive around 45,000 kilometres a year, on freeway and around Melbourne metro area.
I understand the CX-8 is slightly smaller than CX-9, however the interior size is fine.
What do you think of the CX8 diesel? Any other vehicles you would consider in this size range?
Trevor H
A: Honestly, diesel makes almost no sense today except for heavyweight towing. Fuel is not that cheap, a small-capacity turbo petrol engine will deliver economy that’s close to diesel, and the engine is more expensive at the start. That said, there are plenty of family-sized SUVs now. The latest CX-9 is still good with petrol and of the newer models, the VW Tiguan is a ripper.
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