What shall I replace our Octavia with?

Another letter asking for your advice. I am an elderly lady, now the sole driver as my husband is not fit anymore. We have a 2005 2.0 litre diesel Skoda Octavia. We used to tow a caravan for which it was ideal, but for the past three years have only used it for general purpose. I read several times that these short journeys are not good for the car nor for economy of fuel.

What I would like advice on is a car which has quite a high front seat that would make it easy for my husband to get in and out but would still be a comfortable drive for when we do a longer journey. I am not very tall and always sit on a cushion anyway.

I should perhaps mention that I have attained a bronze with ROSPA advanced driving. Not high I know but I feel it keeps me and others safer.

Asked on 19 September 2010 by JK, via email

Answered by Honest John

This 5 year old car is not saddled with a diesel particulate filter, so there are no worries about the DPF getting clogged from a succession of short runs from cold. As long as you stick to that car you should be okay. If you swap, switch to petrol.

New model Ford C-Max, video test here:
www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/ford/c-max-2010

New model Vauxhall Meriva, video test here:
www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/vauxhall/vauxhall-.../

Or something smaller, like a Suzuki Splash, video test here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/suzuki/suzuki-spla.../

Tags: medium cars buying and selling hatchbacks ease of access

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