By Paul Gover.
Q: You have recommended the Kia Seltos in the past and I am happy with that as my choice.
But in the GT Line would you go for all-wheel drive or two-wheel drive, and turbo engine or not?
Rod H
A: You don’t need AWD unless you go to the snow or (lightly) onto sand or tracks in the bush. Turbo engine gives a bit more punch, but the best way to choose the engine it to test drive both options and go with the one you prefer.
Q: What is the on-sale date, please, for the 2020 Hyundai Sonata?
David H
A: My sources inside Hyundai Australia say it’s a fourth-quarter arrival, so it should be in showrooms in October.
Q: I have been looking at getting a model year 2020 Mitsubishi Triton GLS Premium as they have some reasonable deals at the moment.
I currently have a MN Triton and I’m happy with the Mitsy brand.
However, in my research I’ve stumbled across the last Ssangyong Musso and it appears to have everything the Triton has plus a few more comforts, such as a sunroof.
I do tow a 2.2-tonne off-road van and was concerned about the coil springs in the Musso. Do you have any thoughts on the coil springs come towing and any thoughts generally between the two?
Brett
A: The Triton is a better vehicle in general and Mitsubishi is a far better brand. Coil springs are zero problem, since many off-road vehicles used them, but I would still stick with a Triton unless the financials for the Musso are much better.
Q: Could you please advise you opinion on the Volvo XC40?
My wife currently drives a 2014 Mercedes B250 and is looking to change for the Volvo.
Jim N
A: I really really like the XC40. I have nothing bad to say about it. I voted for it as World Car of the Year – and it won.
Q: I am contemplating buying a new or near-new car as my current Subaru Impreza wagon is 25 years old.
I previously owned a Honda Civic wagon for 33 years so I am looking for good quality and safety in the car.
Nothing wrong with my Subaru. If next year has better choice, I can certainly wait.
My dilemma: my double garage has two single entries, I’m only 149 centimetres, now 72, and worried about access.
I’m happy to spend around $30,000 and, though I actually can do with a smaller car, mentally I prefer the bigger one with reasonable boot size.
Poh
A: Look first at the Hyundai Venue, which should be small enough for your garage doors but big enough to make you happy. It also suits the budget.
Q: Can I ask what you think about the Jaguar E-Pace or Range Rover Evoque compared to the Volvo XC40?
Sharon U
A: The Volvo is a great car and a World Car of the Year winner. The Jaguar and Range Rover both still suffer from traditional ‘British car’ problems on quality and reliability and the Evoque is more of a fashion statement than a practical vehicle.
If you have a question for the Car Doctor, send an email to [email protected]
