Why is fuel economy so awful for autos?

Why is fuel consumptions so bad in automatics, compared to the manual versions? It appears to be worse with Kia/Hyundai/Ford, most with dual clutch boxes. VAG group cars and BMWs seem to roughly match...

Should I buy a 2011 Golf automatic?

I love my Volkswagen Golf TDI, which I've had for 11 years. But I now want a car with an automatic gearbox. I have tried a 2011 Golf TDI auto and think this is the car I want. But friends say I should...

Buying a used Nissan Qashqai - what problems do I need to be aware of?

I am thinking of buying a 2010 Nissan Qashqai ntec with 36,000 miles and a full service history. The dealer wants £13,5000. What problems might I need to be aware of and are there suitable alternatives? I...

Mercedes-Benz E-Class auto refusing to change gear

I have a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate 220CDI, 2008 model. Recently, I have been experiencing problems with the automatic transmission, in that the car will not change gear as required. Typically when...

Small automatic car needed for small mileage - recommendations?

My sister requires a small automatic car for her work. It will be used for visiting clients, most of whom live within four miles of her work. She would prefer five-door, second hand up to £9000. What do...

DSG problems with Volkswagen Golf - is it a known fault?

My Volkswagen Golf Plus was recently recalled to have gearbox oil changed. It has covered about 18,000 miles from when new in March 2011. However, the gearbox stalls or stutters when starting to drive...

Yeti automatic doesn't engage at low speeds

I have driven many different autos for over 20 years, but can't master control of my Skoda Yeti. When wanting to pull away, I gently depress the accelerator, ease my foot off the brake and nothing happens....

Ford gearbox supply problem?

Last September I was considering buying a new automatic petrol Tourneo Connect and a local Ford Main Dealership told me the earliest Ford could deliver an auto was January, a five month delivery. I declined...

Why do automatics use more fuel?

Why do all the new Korean cars (Kia, Hyundai) have such appalling CO2 and fuel consumption figures when an automatic 'box is fitted? I wrongly thought that when they progressed to dual-clutch boxes CO2...

Toyota RAV4 - is auto or manual best?

Are there any problems with automatics Toyota RAV4a? I will not be going off road but do live in rural North Wales so do get snow in the winter.