By Paul Gover.
Q: I’m contemplating purchasing a new car for my wife and, seeing she likes to see through the car in front of her when driving, she likes to have an SUV or something she sits high in.
Currently she has a 2000 Mazda Tribute that she has looked after really well, but I think it’s due to move on.
The Haval and MG look an ok option for our price range, but looks don’t always equate to a good purchase.
Peter B
A: Haval and MG are both Chinese brands, so cheap and cheerful but far from best. Anything new will seem better than a Tribute that’s nearly 20 years old, but she should really be looking at Kia or Hyundai with the Venue and Seltos.
Q: I was wondering your thoughts on the Mazda CX-3 versus Mazda3?
I’m 31 and have just come home from living overseas and looking to buy a car to get around. I really like the idea of a compact SUV but know I perhaps don’t need.
Secondly, my sister has just had a baby and she and her husband are looking to upgrade to an SUV to accomodate their growing family. What are your recommendations for a mid-range family car.
Lily H
A: The Mazda3 is far better value as the CX-3 is based on the smaller Mazda2. As for your sister, I would try first with the Hyundai Kona as an affordable mid-sized choice.
Q: My wife and I are considering to buy a BMW X5 or a Volvo XC60 and have driven both cars.
Although we are happy with the BMW, the Volvo drove extremely well.
Thia C
A: I prefer the XC60. I even voted for it as World Car of the Year, an award it won.
Q: I am workied that people no longer drive cars, cars drive people.
There are now too many safety features which are potentially dangerous.
George E
A: Many people drive badly and technology can help with things like blind-spot monitoring and automatic safety braking. Some systems can be clunky but they are a genuine move to save people from themselves.
Q: I am considering a Volkswagen Golf and believe the new Golf 8 will arrive in Australia later in the year.
Should I buy the current car or wait for the new Golf 8?
Ian S
A: The eighth-generation Golf is likely to be a considerable improvement, so wait unless you can get an unbeatable deal on a run-out car.
Q: I’m looking to purchase a twin-cab diesel four-wheel drive ute and basically only need it as a commuter and the odd bit of towing a trailer. I won’t be going off road.
I have it down to two, the Navara N-Trek and the Ford Ranger Wildtrak. The Nissan is about $8-10,000 cheaper.
Phil S
A: The latest Navara drives well and has good quality, although the Wildtrack is still better. If you’re going for a value pick the Nissan will be fine.
If you have a question for the Car Doctor, send an email to [email protected]
