Stilo’s wheels

I am looking to replace my Fiat Stilo Estate with a Skoda Octavia Estate and considering one with the 1.6 diesel engine with DPF (Particulate Filter) especially given low road tax. I note your recent articles about problems with filters in other cars and the note in the Skoda brochure about regeneration requiring constant speed above 37mph. I live in rural Dorset so most journeys are on lanes and slower A roads. The salesman says they have had no problems but should I avoid the DPF version and go for the traditional 1.9 instead.

Asked on 20 February 2010 by C.V., via e-mail

Answered by Honest John

Nothing to do with road speed and everything to do with engine speed. If you're prepared to regularly run in 4th gear rather than 5th, then the DPF should regenerate. EC regulations mean that a car you are buying for economy has been fitted with something that forces you to occasionally drive it uneconomically. It may pass certification tests, but in real life you cannot achieve the promised economy.

Tags: buying dpf new cars large estates

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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