By Paul Gover.
Q: We have just bought a brand-new Mazda CX-30 and they told us the fuel consumption would be 7-8 litres/100 kilometres.
But we are disappointed as it is using over 10.5 litres/100 kilometres.
Should we expect this to improve, as the dealership told us more kilometres will help it to improve?
Rita D
A: Fuel economy will improve a little over time, but the biggest variable is the driver. Your situation is not remotely unusual as the official fuel figures – find them at https://www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au/ – are done in a laboratory and not on the road. Stop-start suburban and city running is the worst for economy, so if you want to know the best potential for your CX-30 take it on a gentle freeway run and check that number.
Q: I’m in the market for a new car and wanting to jump into the hot hatch segment, coming out of a Subaru BRZ.
My budget is $45,000 or less and I’m leaning towards the BMW M140i at this stage.
What do you think and is there any other cars I should be looking at?
Zack D
A: The BMW might have the badge, but if you really want a hot hatch then test drive the Hyundai i30N and Toyota GR Yaris, even though it’s over your limit, to see what real driving enjoyment is about in 2021.
Q: I’m asking about the Kia Stinger GT, as I really rate the car and would like to purchase one after having driven it.
The only reason I haven’t purchased one is that little voice inside my head saying “Is this going to be a wise choice, with so many choices of electric vehicles on the horizon?”
Currently, I own a spectacular low-mileage, rare Vanilla Cream Pearl Volvo C70 convertible that really is a remarkable, 2.5-litre, chipped-up turbo.
But it is 11 years old and I am also really interested in seeing the Polestar 2 electric that’s not too far away from being available.
Should I be thinking petrol and risk it becoming a dinosaur or throw my lot in with new technology?
David K
A: Don’t panic. Go for the car that suits you best for now, and at least the next five years. Electric cars, for most people, are on the far horizon. The Polestar will be very good, but it’s not going to be cheap.
Q: l have a 2009 520D BMW.
The battery has to be replaced and l have been quoted approximately $500 to $600 by both a dealer and an independent outlet.
Both are also saying you need to adjust the recharging rate.
l have never heard of this before or had to do this in any other car. ls this reasonable or are they having a lend of me?
Tim F
A: The price looks about right for a premium battery and BMW Australia spokesman, Nick Raman, provides this background on the process: “The alternator and battery charging rate of recent BMW Group models is governed by the vehicle’s main DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control unit. As batteries age and require more power to receive the same level of charge, the DME instructs the alternator to provide it more charge. When a new battery is installed, the DME needs to be reset as a new battery unit requires a lower charging rate to maintain an appropriate and safe working level. This process is known as “battery registration”, which can be carried out by BMW dealers using a factory diagnostic tool or by an authorised and accredited automotive battery specialist. It is important to carry out as new batteries can be overcharged and potentially lead to failure due to excessive charging rates.”
Q: We are looking to purchase a new Volkswagen Tiguan 162TSI R-Line.
We have been told there is a wait until at least March 2022, or more, due to build delays on tech components.
I understand the car would be a 2021 model, however would the car be plated 2022 when I take ownership?
Would you recommend to purchase now and pay a deposit, or hold out and purchase when they become more easily available?
My concern is when we get the car it will be almost a year old model, so should I wait for a 2022 model?
Anthony P
A: The build plate, which is the age of the car and not the model year, is applied on the production line. Volkswagen says not to worry as none of the Model Year 2022 cars have gone into production. It has also set up a link to help customers to find and grab the right car, and to check on timings, at: https://www.volkswagen.com.au/en/vehicle-delivery-delays.html
Q: Please give your opinion on the Toyota Yaris Cross.
Ursula
A: It’s a nice drive and has the high-set driver’s seat that many people like, as well as aToyota badge, but it’s not cheap. There are plenty of alternatives and you should not commit to a purchase until you have driven the Kia Stonic, which is my current favourite in the class.
Q: I’m thinking of turning over my 2017 Mazda CX-5 Sport for a newer model Mazda or the Hyundai Tucson Elite.
Whats you view on these cars please?
Louise P
A: The all-new Tucson should be your benchmark, but also don’t forget that Kia will soon have a new Sportage with the same basic mechanical package. The best idea is to compare them with back-to-back test drives and also check the financial side of any potential deal.
Q: My son is looking to buy either a Toyota HiLux Rugged X or Isuzu D-Max Terrain.
He does lots camping and off road work.
The HiLux seem expensive but they have a 2018 one with 52,000 kilometres at $64,990.
What do you think?
Simon D
A: The all-new D-Max is the way to go and it will be better value than the Toyota.
If you have a question for the Car Doctor, send an email to [email protected]
