New Sportage - can this high fuel consumption be right?

I have just bought a new Sportage 1.6 GDi 2 based on the excellent reviews. However after two weeks have noticed that the fuel consumption never gets over 35 mpg. The manual states 37mpg urban, 42mpg...

Downsizing for winter tyres - is this possible?

I'd like to get winter tyres for our cars (A 2008 Kia Sportage on 235/55R17 tyres and a 2005 E320D Estate on 245/45 R17 tyres. I've heard that it's possible to specify smaller tyres on steel wheels for...

Which small car offers good disabled access?

We currently run a Toyota Verso but my wife finds it too big and the poor turning circle puts her off driving it altogether. We want a small car that is easy for disabled access, easy to drive and park,...

Can you suggest a replacement for our Smart Car?

I want to exchange my 2004 Smart Fortwo for a similar small car, predominately used for short in-town journeys. We have another car for longer trips when three or more seats are needed. It needs upright...

Hyundai ix20, KIA Venga or Vauxhall Meriva?

My wife is looking for a car with easy access, a high driving position, plenty of room for grandchildren and plenty of convertible space, as well as a bit of refinement and 'oomph'. We have narrowed things...

I need a cheap, reliable car to cover a big mileage - what do you recommend?

I am due to start a new job in Lincolnshire which involves covering 30,000 miles a year, 200 miles a day. Which car would you recommend as the cheapest option? I can't afford a new car and, given the high...

What should I buy instead of a Skoda Fabia?

My wife has a new Skoda Fabia SE estate with the 1.2TSI engine and 7 speed DSG on order with the local dealer and with a £2500 part exchange for her Citroen C3 (reg Sept 2007) with 39000 mileage. We are...

Replacing an Audi Avant?

Have an old Audi Avant. I'm looking for a newer (12 months old perhaps) medium sized saloon/hatch. I want to avoid DSG gearboxes and electronic/ pedal handbrakes. I also want a car that has good visibility...

Buying a smallish auto petrol MPV or SUV?

I'm writing on behalf of my Aunty who is going to change her 6 year old diesel C-Max and is looking for a new car. She is looking for a petrol (less than 4k mpa) auto small/ medium MPV or SUV with ease...

Replacement car for the in-laws

I have been tasked with identifying a replacement car for my parents-in-law. Their budget is roughly £13k and whilst they would prefer a new car, they may be persuaded by a good 2nd hand model, as long...