By Paul Gover.
Q: Are used car prices still quite inflated?
I am wanting to trade in a 2015 Nissan Juke ST manual turbo on a 2019 or newer Kia Sportage.
I am not in a hurry so can wait even though I have seen one I am interested in.
What would you advise?
Lyn M
A: Prices are still strong and will be for some time. But remember that selling high also means buying high, with new-car prices rising over the past year on many popular models and keeping secondhand values strong. If you’ve seen a Kia you like there is no reason not to go ahead if the deal is right.
Q: I now you get asked hundreds of times, but what is the best small and economical SUV, please?
Price is not that important but around $30,000 tops.
We are both in our 70s and like travelling around Victoria on short trips, but don’t travel very much as I have a back problem and don’t have the grandkids much.
We have been looking at Kia as it has a good name and my husband likes a secondhand Renault Koleos, but I do not know much about them and so am a bit wary.
Heather H
A: The new Kia Stonic is an ideal choice for you. It’s a new design, drives well and will be economical and safe. The Koleos which is a Nissan under the skin, is an OK car but why not treat yourselves and not just go for a secondhand bargain.
Q: We are seniors in our 70s who are driving a 9-year-old Hyundai i30 that has done 88,000 kilometres so thinking we need to upgrade now.
Have test driven the base i30 hatch and Kia Cerato Sport model hatch but find it hard to split them.
We’ve very interested in your thoughts and ratings on these two, or should we be looking at other comparable options?
Gary F
A: The i30 and Cerato are twins under the skin from the same South Korean conglomerate, with the only real differences in the suspension tuning, pricing and warranty. The Hyundai is a long-term favourite but, right now, many people put the Kia slightly ahead because of its price and the longer warranty. Just beware of getting big alloy rims with low-profile tyres, as these can be noisy and make the ride a bit harsh.
Q: We have a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with low mileage but with some electrical problems, so we are thinking of selling it to acquire a new SUV.
We are thinking of purchasing a camper trailer soon and are looking to install a tow-bar to our Jeep.
Can you please suggest SUV models that we should buy and have good tow capacity with a budget of $35,000.
Alan T
A: Most mid-sized SUVs tow around the 2.5-tonne range but your budget will be tight so look at the Nissan X-Trail as it has a solid reputation, with Kia as the back-up.
Q: Do have you any suggestions for a replacement vehicle for me as I currently drive a 2014 SRT Jeep and, unlike many Jeep owners, I love it.
I use it for towing regularly and also school drop-off and pick-ups, where I need space as both children play the cello and other instruments.
Its also used for family holidays etc…
I’ve had it from new, it’s done 200,000 so I’m looking for options with similar or more power.
Barry C
A: If you like the Jeep then perhaps go again, as there is nothing with the same impact as the SRT SUV and it will cost a huge amount to get better performance from a Porsche or AMG Benz.
Q: I have a Mercedes-Benz A250 with all the bells and whistles, purchased new in May 2016 and now with 19,000 on the clock.
When new the car would make what I now know as crabbing noises.
I want to sell the car, bu what is crabbing and is this going to work against me when selling? Is this a congenital fault? Do I have any recall on MB?
Also, considering the anecdotal inflated prices on secondhand vehicles, what price do you think I should ask for it?
Joyce G
A: The crabbing comes from the grippy front tyres during low-speed manoeuvring and is common on many Benz models, but Mercedes does not admit any fault. It should not affect the resale price. If you want another small hatchback then the latest all-new Volkswagen Golf, the eighth generation, will be a great choice.
Q: I am considering buying an XC40 – safety first, I like the size and height, a bit of luxury, and it’s quite zippy!
Do you think it is worth purchasing the Hybrid model? Will be used mainly for local suburban trips and the occasional longer one.
Also, I do like the sunroof, but will that compromise on safety?
Alison L
A: The XC40 is an excellent vehicle and the hybrid will be worthwhile for short trips and will save you money. A sunroof makes no difference to a vehicle’s safety.
Q: I am in the market for new car and was hoping you could give me your thoughts on the Volkswagen Golf versus T-Roc.
I have had a Golf before and I loved it.
Debbie C
A: You’re comparing an SUV with a hatch, so it’s peas versus lemons, but if you’ve had a Golf before then you should go again. The latest Golf 8 is a ripper thing, even if most people seem to think an SUV is a must-have choice in 2021 and the T-Roc is good.
If you have a question for the Car Doctor, send an email to [email protected]
