Ask Honest John

Most recently answered buying questions
I would like to buy a Hyundai i10 1.2 Classic, which is advertised at £6,795 in red. I have spoken to my local dealer and this is the price if I part exchange my present car with them (or if I sell my...
I was looking to buy a new Mazda6 estate and visited local dealer. On the windscreen was an "on the road price" which was about £1,000 less than list. However the moment I mentioned I wanted to avail myself...
Why can one not take delivery of a demo model car until it is 3 months old? I have just agreed a part-exchange for a car registered 31st March 2009 but I cannot take delivery until 30th June. This does...
I live in Portugal and have a 1997 Mercedes C180 Classic estate, petrol 1,800cc. It's done around 350,000km and the Mercedes dealership had fitted a new engine and suspension at 260,000km. It suits our...
I have a 2005 VW Passat Trendline TDi PD 130 saloon that has done 81,000 miles and I am thinking of changing it. My problem is to find a suitable replacement. I drive about 20,000 miles a year and, being...
I am thinking about replacing my CR-V diesel 2006 32,000 mileage. I don't need 4-wheel drive, although it is nice to have. I need a car capable of returning over 40mpg. I currently average 41mpg in the...
I recently purchased a Mercedes 1995 SL500 Cat D due to front bumper cosmetic damage, I have presented my car at an approved body repairer in Kettering Northants for corrective repairs as I like the car...
I currently own a 1996 Golf GTI 16v with 100,000 miles on the clock. The car is great, pretty much bomb proof and a great mix of comfort and speed. The economy isn’t terrible especially as I’m a little...
What should I buy? I need enough room for a pair of oars and outboard engine. Good fuel economy. Ability to tow 2 laser dinghies. Lowish road tax. Cruise at 80, i.e., not a slug for its weight. 3 or 5...
You extol the virtues of the i10, i20 and i30 regularly in your column. I bought a new Honda Jazz in 2007 after reading your comments on it but I would now like something a little less staid. Would the...