By Paul Gover.
cardQ: I am having issues with my 2018 HiLux and Toyota cannot give me a reason.
When driving in the country areas and getting to the top of a hill and then letting the car coast down the hill the car starts to change down gears and the car can rev from 3000rpm to 4000rpm depending on how steep the hill is. I am concerned the engine is revving too hard and may cause damage. Car rego 1MY3SS.They have checked 2 times and say no issues and want me to go to another dealer to have it checked at my cost.
Peter C
A: Lots of modern transmissions downshift to slow a vehicle on downgrades. This ‘protocol’ is because of safety and emissions requirements. It’s actually a good thing because it helps the driver and also cuts wear on the brakes from later slowing further down the grade. Revving to 4000 will not hurt the engine at all.
Q: I would love your advice on the Honda HRV.
I’m looking to buy a secon hand car and have been looking at the Mazda3 (Maxx) but like the idea of a compact SUV and so came across the HRV.
I’d really like to get your thoughts on it regarding value, features and how you think it stacks up against the Mazda3 in regards to a $17,000-$20,000 price point.
Lily H
A: Most important, for a start, is size.The HR-V is based on the Honda Jazz, which is a class smaller than the Mazda3. Same as the Mazda CX-3 is based on the baby Mazda2 and not, as the name suggests, the Mazda3. So the HR-V is significantly smaller than the Mazda3 and nowhere near as refined or quiet or comfortable. Check the boot first, and then the back seat, to ensure you have enough space.
Q: I have a seven-year old X5 BMW and looking to replace it with a new vehicle.
We want to car of similar size and capacity space-wise, what can you suggest we look at?
Bernie M
A: Surprisingly, my choice is BMW’s X3. It’s grown so much in size that it will be much of a muchness with your X5, which is now huge in the latest generation. The X3 is a surprisingly good car in the latest model, much more refined than in the past and with enough space for family use. The price should work as well.
Q: I’ve been driving Mitsubishi Triton utes for about 17 years now and the time has come to trade in my 2013 dual cab for something updated.
The current one has nearly 300,000 on the clock and it’s starting to get a few issues.
Given my industry has been quiet for a while now I’m thinking I should be keeping my costs down as much as feasible.
I was wondering your thoughts on the LDV dual cabs or should I just fork out the additional to stay with the Mitsubishi?
I tow a 5-metre fishing boat occasionally and rarely tow heavy for work these days.
Brian P
A: The LDV will be fine. Don’t expect too much on resale, but I’ve put a couple of mates into LDVs and they have done the job, with great value. The difference to the Mitsubishi is not as great as you might think and the dollars work in favour of the Chinese car.
Q: I’m thinking about buying a small SUV for under $30,000.
I don’t drive a lot during the week as work is only about 20 kilometres from home, but on weekends I travel a fair bit.
I currently have a 2015 Hyundai i30 which has approximately 65,000 kilometres on it, and I’d be looking at trading this in.
The SUVs that I’m thinking about are the Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-3 or the Kia Seltos.
What are your thoughts on these SUVs and is there something else that you would recommend?
Jen H
A: It’s pretty easy. Drive the Kona and Seltos, then pick the one you prefer that makes the most financial sense. The CX-3 is a full size smaller from the Kona and Seltos, which are based on the Hyundai i30 platform.
Q: I am looking to upgrade from a small sedan to something easier to get in and out of.
I rather like the new Toyota RAV, particularly the hybrid, and I am well aware of the long waiting list.
However, I would not have an objection to a sedan/station wagon.
I will be doing 2-3 interstate trips per year as well as city driving and weekend road trips.
Trevor A
A: The RAV is good, and lots of people are ‘convinced’ by the hybrid, but it’s very costly, especially as a hybrid. You can get a car that’s almost the same for less money, and I’m thinking of the Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos twins. Hyundai also has a hybrid Kona that might suit you.
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