By Paul Gover.
Q: I would love to know your thoughts on the current rumour regarding Australia’s automotive industry moving to drive-away pricing only at dealers?
I’ve heard that, as of next year, Honda will be the first ones to put this in place.
What do you think this means for the industry?
Also, will salespeople no longer be needed? Would love to hear your thoughts.
Nik D
A: This is a massively complicated subject, with only a couple of companies – Honda and Mercedes-Benz – moving to a direct-selling model at the moment. More will definitely follow and the long-term outlook if for fewer and fewer traditional dealerships, as people do their research online and then buy the same way without even bothering to take a test drive.
Q: I have one of the 75-or-so remaining Mazda sanctioned 2002 MX-5 SPs built by Prodrive in Melbourne. It’s in pristine condition and rarely driven these days.
My question is whether or not it’s likely to become an appreciating collectable or not and hence if it’s worth paying the upkeep for rego, insurance and maintenance, or if I should just sell it?
I’d really appreciate any advice you may be able to offer as I keep flip-flopping from keep it to sell it etc.
Steve D
A: If it still gives you joy, even on the rare occasions you drive, then keep it. A friend in the MX-5 heartland says it’s a popular choice and a minor collectable model, but will not appreciate in the same way as an HSV Holden or a Ferrari.
Q: I got your advice for my last car, which is a 2011 Kia Sportage.
No problems with it and I love it.
But I thought, as it’s getting on, it might be best to get another car and so asking your advice.
Mostly just me in the car. Sometimes my husband. Don’t tow. Just drive mostly local. I do 90 per cent of the driving.
Happy to purchase another kia.
Joh G
A: Simple: Kia Seltos. Does much the same as your old Sportage, but more urban focussed and proud of it.
Q: I’m looking at buying a 4×4 for recreational driving and 4×4 road trips.
I’m looking at a Toyota FJ Cruiser, what are your thoughts?
What else would you recommend, for a budget up to $35,000.
Michael B
A: The FJ looks fun and funky, but under the skin it’s not particularly good, with outdated technology and sloppy driving responses. The Mitsubishi Pajero would be my choice with that budget. Not as distinctive on the road as the FJ, but more around for better choice and good value.
Q: We are looking for a family SUV with a third row of seats.
We quite like the Volvo XC90 and the Audi Q7.
Which one would you choose?
EJ and Brent
A: I would go for the Volvo. The Audi can be over-priced and it’s really a VW Touareg under the skin. The XC90 is a great looker and also drives well.
Q: I currently have a Honda CRV 2012 model.
I love the car but find it’s getting too big.
What would be my next option with all the safety features and apple play etc?
It needs to be an SUV height as I have a bad back and need that height.
Lynette H
A: The good news is there are lots of very good, and slightly smaller, SUVs these days. I have just been driving the Hyundai Venue and can recommend it very highly. It should have all the stuff you want.
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