By Paul Gover.
Q: I’m looking at the Renault Koleos Intens 4×2 and Toyota RAV4 Cruiser petrol 2WD.
Is there any other SUV you suggest we look at up to $50,000.
Glenda W
A: There are a vast number of choices in that class. The Koleos has just been updated so should be good, and there is a giant waiting list for the RAV4. But Renault has just changed its distribution in Australia. So I would test drive the RAV, also the Volkswagen Tiguan and Kia Sportage, and choose between those three.
Q: What car would you recommend as a first car for a 18 year female.
She likes cars like the small/medium sized SUVS.
Michelle R
A: Depending on budget, the best would be a new Hyundai Venue. On the secondhand side, a Suzuki Vitara.
Q: I am currently driving a 2014 Holden Trax and it’s just on 100,000 kilometres and I think it’s time for a change.
I have loved driving this car. Love the height of the seat when driving. It has never disappointed.
Can you advise the best small SUV up to $25,000.
Kerry E
A: Things have improved vastly since 2014 and the Trax. Right now, with that budget, it’s the Hyundai Venue.
Q: I am looking for a reliable secondhand five-seater family car.
Looking at spending around $20-25,000 and looking at the Toyota RAV4 and Camry.
Can you suggest the best year model I should be looking at?
Marina
A: For family use the Camry is a far better choice than the RAV, even though most people now want an SUV. For value, go to www.carsales.com.au and look for the newest model and mileage in your budget.
Q: We are currently looking at buying a new RAV4 Cruiser and we a not sure if we should buy the hybrid or the petrol version.
Suzanne W
A: If you’re not making the trendy choice for the hybrid, then the question is decided by your use. If it’s mostly short trips in the suburbs, definitely the hybrid as it will be cheaper to run, but if you do long distances and mostly freeway work it will be operating on the petrol engine so the extra cost is not outweighed by the advantage in running costs.
Q: I am thinking of buying a Model Year 2022 Kia Seltos Sport Plus CVT and trading-in my 2014 Volkswagen Passat.
With my trade in, I have a budget of about $25,000.
So, what is your overall opinion of the Kia or is there a better option for my budget?
The car will be for suburban travel mainly.
But how do I get a realistic opinion/quote for my VW Passat for trade-in purposes?
Lawrence
A: The Seltos is a great choice. It gets The Tick from me. On values, go to www.carsales.com.au and find similar vehicles to yours and check their selling prices.
Q: My sister’s 5-year-old Hyundai’s radio has just stopped working.
The local Hyundai dealership tells me that it’s not covered under warranty.
They are wanting $400 to replace it and I’m wondering if that is correct.
Kathryn M
A: Sadly, that is correct. Because the infotainment system comes from a supplier, and not the factory in South Korea, it only has a three-year warranty. I’ve tried in the past to get help for people in your situation without any success.
Q: Just need your feedback on the Isuzu MUX LST, the current model and not the new one coming in the second half of 2021.
Should I go ahead and purchase this current model with all of the extras listed above or should I wait for the new model?
Vishal M
A: If you’re getting a great deal, then go ahead. The new model will be better, but also likely to have a significant price rise without the sort of extra equipment they are currently using to sweeten the run-out deals.
Q: Looking at two new SUVs, Kia Sorrento and Hyundai Pallisade.
Which would you choose between top-of-the-range models in each case?
Donna S
A: I’d go with the Pallisade if price is not a problem. Remember that the Sorrento is the twin of the Hyundai Santa Fe. But if you have a serious budget and one some amazing luxury at a great price, the new Genesis GV80 is definitely worth a close look.
Q: My 18-year-old daughter is after her first car and looking at a Holden Cruze SRI.
I was wondering what your thoughts on that is and if you have another range or cars.
Her budget is about $10-15,000 and she does not matter if it’s a hatch or sedan.
Peter C
A: The Cruze is a reasonable car, not a standout, but has been hit hard on resale by Holden’s withdrawal from Australia. If she gets a top deal, and best to compare prices at www.carsales.com.au, then go ahead, but also look at the Kia Cerato for a value comparison.
If you have a question for the Car Doctor, send an email to [email protected]
