By Paul Gover.
Q: I have been driving a VW Passat wagon for the last few years and it is now time to change.
I do not need such a large car as it is generally just me driving to work as we use mainly my partner’s car on the weekend, so I would like a small to medium car, preferably with four doors as I do occasionally drive my elderly in-laws.
I would like something a bit sporty and fun and was thinking of a budget around $50-70,000, but I am flexible.
I really don’t know where to start but googled the Mercedes A Class, Audi A1 Sportback and BMW 1 Series.
Allison H
A: The latest A-Class is definitely the one for you. I really like the A35 if your budget goes that far.
Q: My wife and I are looking at the Honda HR-V.
We currently have a Mazda CX5, which we like, but it’s too big for our new garage.
We looked at the HR-V range and came away a bit confused. We like the top-of-the-range VTI-LX, but we both don’t like the sunroof that comes standard in this model. We do, however, like all the other features, which most are not available in the next one down, the RS model.
Greg K
A: The HR-V is now old and outdated, based on the baby Jazz so also over-priced. Look instead at the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Venue, both right-up-to-date and with the equipment you want. If you have a bit more in the kitty, the latest Volkswagen T-Cross is very impressive.
Q: My wife and I are looking to purchase a new or used car and are interested in the Toyota RAV4 and the Mazda CX-5, as well as the Honda CRV.
We are looking to spend approximately $30,000 and are interested in your opinion as to best value for money, reliability and handling.
We were also interested in your thoughts on the Kia and Hyundai models, as a comparison to the above. Is there another car brand we should be considering?
Tim D
A: If you’re buying secondhand then the CX-5 is definitely the best choice, but your budget will also get you a new Seltos or Venue.
Q: I’m looking at buying a 2018 BMW M3 CS demonstrator.
What are your thoughts on it ? I know the new model is supposed to come out in end of 2021.
Mickey R
A: The new-generation M3 will be massively improved, based on the step-change improvements to the rest of the 3-Series range, so I would either wait or take a test drive in the M2. It’s likely to feed your need, at least until the new M3 lands.
Q: I am looking to buy a Mazda3 or Toyota Corolla or similar for my wife.
Also looking at Volkswagen Tiguan 162 TSI Highline for myself, just for normal city driving.
Frank S
A: The Tiguan is an excellent choice but in the small-car class I’d go for the value in the Hyundai i30, as the latest Mazda3 is over-priced against its rivals and the Corolla – unless you want the hybrid – also suffers by comparison to the latest Hyundai and Kia babies.
Q: I am a middle-aged woman (shhh) who has no idea about cars.
So wondering if I could trouble you with some advice.
The time has come to treat myself with an SLC 200, and I’m looking at a 2016 model from a Mercedes dealership.
It’s apparently all checked out and with a two-year warranty
They tried to talk me into a demo, but I just don’t see the money in a 2019 versus 2016.
So any hints or tips would be much appreciated
Madison M
A: A demo with a 2019-build date will be a huge bargain, and there will be considerable improvements to the technology, if you can make the sums work. And, just as a well-earned treat, there is nothing quite like a new car.
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