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 have 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 sales people no longer be needed?
Would love to hear your thoughts.
Nik D
A: It’s not drive-way pricing, it’s a direct sales model where the companies take control from dealerships. More and more will be doing it, although Honda and Mercedes-Benz are planning to be the first, but there will still need to be demonstrator cars for the people who buy after driving instead of just relying on a facts-and-figures from a corporate website. I understand that it’s easier for car companies, and allows dealers to get out of their giant showrooms for a profit if they can sell for housing development, but it’s too early to know the full impact.
Q: My wife drives a 2017 BMW X3 2.0d and loves the car but would like something smaller.
She has shown interest in the Volvo XC40 – either Inscription or R-Design.
What do you think of this Volvo and how does it compare quality wise with her current X3?
Any additional information and advice is also most welcome.
Tony M
A: The Volvo is excellent; smaller and more nimble than her X3, also easier to park. I would definitely NOT recommend the R-Design with its big wheels, which hurt the ride comfort.
The XC40 is under-appreciated for its classy design, excellent quality and nice driving.
Q: I’m a current Skoda Yeti owner and have loved it.
Now I’m looking at the Skoda Karoq, so would appreciate thoughts on it and other like options from other brands?
Brett M
A: I’m a huge fan of the Karoq and have been driving one on long-term loan for a couple of months. It’s compact in size, feels refined and goes well. There is no reason not to buy one.
Q: What’s your thoughts on a 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63?
It’s got 17,000 kilometres on the clock, in showroom condition for $70,000.
John S
A: I love the AMG 63, which is a pocket battleship with its V8 engine and AMG tweaking. Remember they can be very heavy on tyres and use a bit of fuel, but they’re a very enjoyable hotrod. It’s best to compare prices at www.carsales.com.au for similar cars to check the value.
Q: We are looking at small SUVs and have been offered a good deal on a Suzuki Vitara Turbo.
However, we have had good reports about the upcoming Skoda Kamiq.
Is it worth our while to wait to check out the Kamiq or go with the Suzuki?
John N
A: If you need to buy now, the Vitara is an excellent choice. The Kamiq will be good, but you would have to drive back-to-back to make a properly informed decision.
Q: We are wanting to update our 2016 Ford Focus because of transmission issues and buy a used car.
We would like a diesel, were thinking a Hyundai i30 or Nissan Qashqai, and we like the idea of small SUV but our budget sits around $20-25,000 so probably not a lot available.
Reliability is important and value for money as we don’t update cars regularly and prefer to look after them and keep them.
Prue S
A: Why a diesel? They cost more than a petrol car and, these days, are not much better on fuel. And diesel fuel costs more. For your budget, the Hyundai Venue would work well, is a good car and also brand-new.
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