By Paul Gover.
Q: Do you know if any electric car company is building or researching utes, 4x4s or 4×4 utes?
Chris G
A: Short answer? No. Tesla has its Cybertruck and Hummer is coming back as an electric-only brand, but neither of those will be competing with the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger and no other brand is seriously considering a one-tonne electric ute for Australia.
Q: I purchased my Lexus NX300 in September 2018, but we live in the country and find the LED headlights not great on high beam.
I had them checked where we bought the car and were told that they were up to standard.
Having had three RX350s, the lights had never been an issue. These we feel are not adequate and we are not comfortable using the car at night.
George R
A: You are right that the NX has LEDs, but only on the low beam. It’s for Japanese cars to have premium low-beam and one-grade-lower high beams, because no-one there drives on the ‘brights’ because they are always in the city. Your only solution, apart from a car swap, is to mount quality LED driving lights by a company like Hella.
Q: I’m in the market for a new ute and have been looking at Ford Ranger, Holden Colorado, Nissan Navara and Isuzu D-Max.
It would be used for work and leisure, also looking at semi-retirement next year and will be buying a caravan around 19 foot.
Andrew J
A: The Isuzu has a great reputation for towing, but the Ranger – designed and developed in Australia – is better overall. Drive them back-to-back, and not just around the block, before you decided and consider more than towing.
Q: I’m thinking of changing my 12-year-old Toyota RAV4.
I really don’t need an SUV but like the higher seat. I only drive locally as well.
Lorraine B
A: There are endless choices in the SUV world, but I would recommend you test drive three – Hyundai Venue, Subaru XV and Kia Seltos – and pick the one you like best that is best for your budget.
Q: I am looking to buy a new small car and looking at an MG 3 Core or a Kia Picanto.
Which model would be you choice?
Glenda M
A: Picanto, always and definitely. Are you aware that MG is actually a cheapie Chinese brand, from a company which only purchased the name and logo of the famous MG motors of the UK?
Q: I recently purchased a Volkswagen Golf, the top-of-the-range with leather interior, sunroof and all.
It has done only 1500 kilometres, however I am having trouble getting in and out of the vehicle due to some back issues.
I would like to swap over to a Tiguan or T-Rock, staying with Volkswagen, but trying to limit my loss.
Pat K
A: The answer for you is the all-new Volkswagen T-Cross, which is compact and relatively affordable from $27,990.
If you have a question for the Car Doctor, send an email to [email protected]
