By Paul Gover.
Q: I have been driving a Holden 2002 VX Commodore since new, but it is time for me to upgrade.
I love my commodore, but it now has 273,000 on the clock and is not economical.
I am thinking of buying a small SUV, such as a Mazda CX-3, Hyundai Kona Highlander, or something similar.
Joan W
A: The CX-3 is getting old but the Kona is a good choice. Best for you to test drive a couple, starting with the Mazda and Hyundai, but then also the Kia Seltos that should also tick your boxes and provide a good value package with a long warranty.
Q: What do I buy next after my Commodore wagons, as I have four that I use for work and the kilometres are getting high?
Commodore wagon ticks the boxes for load space, back doors and tailgate at road level for easy access, grunt from the 6-cylinder engine, only require 91-octant fuel, well priced around $40,000.
I understand the Skoda wagon has the next biggest payload, but it is too small.
The Aussie favourite HiLux-type utes are no good, too high at the back and sides.
So I think I am looking at SUVs – cage behind the front seats, maybe remove the back seats, have access from back doors and rear tailgate – not that keen and never had one.
A: You’ve probably been looking at the wrong Skoda. The Octavia might not match the Commodore but the larger Superb ticks every one of your boxes, including comparable passenger and load space to a Commodore. It’s also a great drive, has a long warranty and a sharp price.
Q: I am a long-time driver behind the wheel and I feel that turning indicators are becoming more difficult to see on some of the more recent models because of the everyday use of daytime driving lights – Mazda CX5, Nissan X-trail to name just a couple.
A number of my motoring friends are also finding or noting the same situation, which I find is interesting.
The lights on some other passenger vehicles are much smaller and compact where as once upon a time they were clearly separate lights with a smaller side light, usually in the front mudguard, which could be easily seen from the side when indicating a turn, regardless of the time, day or night.
Recently, I was following a brand-new Tesla sedan in broad daylight and their rear indicator appears so small and was somewhat difficult to pick up when it braked before turning ?
Graeme W
A: There are many stories of people struggling to adapt to the latest changes in vehicle lighting, not just on new cars but also with people upgrading to ultra-bright LED globes which can cause excessive glare from older vehicles which were never designed for the new globes. Adaptive LED systems provide great vision without upsetting other drivers, although they are still not universal. Turn signals are covered by an Australian Design Rule, which sets the photometric requirements including the intensity of the light, so all new vehicles will have to meet that standard. In the case of DRLs – daytime running lights – they are usually extinguished when the turn signal is activated.
Q: I have a Kia Sportage at the moment, but looking to get a new car and wondering about the Seltos.
Judith F
A: It will mean downsizing, since the Seltos is a class smaller than the Sportage. But if it’s not for full-time family use it will be fine and is a smart purchase. Just beware of the long waiting lists for most Kia models, particularly if you get a fully-loaded model that requires lots of computer chips.
Q: My wife an I are in our 70s and we find the SUVs beneficial in that we can get in and get out easier.
We don’t tow or go off-road, but I like a vehicle that is well built and of good quality. I also need to fit the golf clubs and buggy.
We also do a few road trips with the need to fit in our luggage etc
We would average about 15,000 kilometres per annum and I am looking at the BMW X3 turbo petrol and would appreciate your thoughts.
Terry M
A: The X3 is now back to its best and definitely a good choice but, to give you a comparative choice and a car with excellent quality and value, you should also test drive the Genesis GV70.
Q: I am planning on upgrading my 2014 Atenza Mazda6 this year, and I have been looking at the new Camry Sl hybrid or a Lexus sedan ES300hF sport.
Although the Camry is a good car, from what I have read, I see them as taxis or fleet cars.
So I am now looking at the Lexus, maybe 2020 model.
I acknowledge the huge price difference, so I am after you opinion on which car you think is a better option.
Jim
A: The Camry will be far better than you expect and could shock you during a test drive. It’s definitely not a taxi, as the days of price-fighter models ended with the closure of the Australian factory. The Lexus ES is just a dressed-up Camry in any case, so far better – and far smarter – to go for the Toyota.
Q: What are your thoughts on dual-cab utes and which one to buy?
I am a gardener with four kids that needs to tow a trailer but I want all the best features lie cameras – great GPS or Apple CarPlay, good cup holders etc – and probably actually want a 4WD.
It needs to be practical so I can throw gear in the back but also move the family around but I want it to be efficient fuel wise and reliable.
So wondering where to start and what are best 2-3 options?
Kurt S
A: For the comfort and safety of the youngsters, and general driving enjoyment, you would be better to get the SUV version of the pick-up. So look first at the Isuzu MU-X, but wait until the arrival of the all-new Ford Everest in a couple of months as it promises to set the benchmark. If you decide to go with a pick-up, the three to drive are the Ford Ranger – again with an update coming soon – Isuzu D-Max and, as a value choice, the Nissan Navara.
Q: I am looking to purchase a BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE 400.
Can you advise which of these is the best purchase?
I am also open to other makes and models if suitable.
Hugh C
A: The X5 is the better pick for all-round comfort and ability, but if you’re buying an SUV as a luxury car with extra height then also consider the Audi Q7 for its class and comfort, as well as the Genesis GV80 for a surprisingly classy value pick. The best way to decide is a series of back-to-back test drives on your home roads – and don’t forget to see how it looks in your driveway.
If you have a question for the Car Doctor, send an email to [email protected]
