By Paul Gover.
Q: I am looking at buying a new car and looking for around or under $30,000.
Can you please let me know your opinion on the 2020 Skoda Octavia 110tsi with DSG.
I need a lot of space in the rear for dogs, when the back seats are up, and I also want to be able to tow a trailer of wood a few times a year.
Steve R
A: I think the Octavia is a very good car, with more space than you expect. It’s from the VW Group so expect that level of quality and driving refinement, but with more space than the equivalent Golf.
Q: I am looking at getting new dual-cab ute.
Purpose is 50 per cent city driving, 30 per cent highway/long distance and 20 per cent off-road high-country fishing/camping.
I have budget of $60,000 but am confused by all the spin from the marketing departments.
Comfort and a quiet ride is most important.
Frank P
A: If comfort and a quiet ride come first then you should go for a Volkswagen Amarok. It’s the most car-like to drive. The latest Isuzu D-Max and Ford Ranger are also at the top of the pile. But remember all of the utes are compromised in some way and you should really test drive to ensure you get what you want.
Q: My wife and I are looking to buy a premium large SUV which will carry two sets of golf clubs, two sets of motorised golf buggies and a couple of suitcases whilst touring in our retirement.
We may also want to tow a caravan up to 3500 kilograms later-on.
We have test driven a VW Touareg 190TDI, Mercedes GLE 400d, Audi Q7 TDI and a Jeep Grand Cherokee auto 4 x 4 Summit and are confused.
Can you help us decide which vehicle is best suited for us?
Con & Bronwyn F
A: For me it’s the Touareg. The Benz is ponderous and very expensive, the Q7 is really just an upscale Touareg – they both come from the VW Group family – and I would not put money into a Grand Cherokee against the Europeans.
Q: I am 57 , have had company-supplied cars for over 30 years, and now will be getting a $13,000 car allowance plus a fuel card and tolls .
I wholesale office furniture, so want a large vehicle, presently a have a Nissan Pathfinder, but would like even a bit bigger.
I would like a Range Rover Sport and there are a few around from dealers for $ 70,000-$80,000 with less than 50,000 kilometres.
Or do I go a new Prado with a guaranteed future value?
Peter O
A: Yours is a heart-versus-head choice, so if you want a Range Rover then give it a go. You can always switch to a Prado later.
Q: Some years ago you gave me good advice to choose a new Holden Calais V V6 rather than a new Ford FGX G6E Turbo.
Again, I seek your advice.
I am seriously considering a new run-out Volkswagen Golf R, but have concerns as to its low gearing to achieve performance causing higher highway engine speed detracting from relaxing highway touring.
John E
A: The gearing will be fine. Everything these days is around 3000 revs at 100-100km/h, where old Aussies sixes were low-revving by comparison. And the Golf R is a belter.
Q: I have a 1977 Mercedes-Benz 450SL in good condition and have had for a while.
I am in my mid 70’s and trying to work out if it will increase in value over coming years or if I am better to get out of it now.
I don’t need the money and have other cars for daily driving, just doing a bit of estate planning.
Your thoughts on if it will be a desirable classic in the future.
Alan S
A: Honestly, although the 450 SL was a magnificent car, it’s unlikely to increase in value because of the backlash against V8s and non-safety cars. My best advice is to contact Shannons Auctions and see if they would want to take the car on for one of its sales, then look at what you would get for it and if it is still enjoyable to keep.
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