Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4 - which is best?

I am considering buying a Honda CR-V manual petrol 4WD or a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 4WD. I do not do enough mileage for a diesel (around 12,000 miles per year) and want to buy a car that will keep me for 10...

Should I swap my 2013 CR-V for an older model?

I currently drive a 2013 Honda CR-V petrol, which is now out of it's warranty period. In the two years I've owned it, it has lost £6000 in value through depreciation (£250 a month) and I also pay a monthly...

Can you recommend a used seven-seater with a petrol engine?

I am looking for a used seven-seater with a petrol engine and automatic gearbox. I'm split between the Nissan Qashqai+2 2.0 and the Toyota Verso 1.8. Both up to year 2012 or older. Which would you choose?...

Need a small petrol hatchback with torque converter gearbox

I want to replace my Honda Jazz with a similar-sized hatchback;however, I want a petrol automatic with decent performance. I don’t fancy a CVT gearbox and my preferences are: Mazda 2, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai...

Are turbocharged petrol engines reliable?

Our car is a BMW 120i coupe "non-turbo". The latest 218 etc has twin turbos. In view of all the warnings you have issued over the years regarding turbo bearing failure doe to overheating, would we be storing...

Does the Ford Focus auto use a torque converte gearbox?

I am looking at a nearly new Ford Focus 1.5-litre EcoBoost auto (either 150PS or 182PS) and am trying to establish which type of gearbox it has. I think it has always had a six-speed torque converter (unlike...

Need a cheap first car with low running costs

I am a first time driver looking to buy a used small car for my commute of about 20 miles. I have £3000 to spend and need a car with low maintenance costs. What should I buy?

Do turbocharged engines operate properly in first gear?

Turbochargers on engines used not to operate in first gear or below 2000rpm. (diesel) or 3000rpm. (petrol). Is this still the case as I may in the future purchase a small capacity turbo engine ? ...

Why does my Vauxhall Astra Estate ratting during start up?

My Vauxhall Astra Estate (1.6 petrol with 200k on the clock) has developed a heavy rattle/knocking noise. It last for a second or two at the start up. Sounds like it's in the head/VVT area. Always flushed...

Best three-door warm hatch?

My wife is considering replacing her 2002 Toyota Corolla T sport, which has provided outstandingly reliable and fun motoring from new. She only does 5000 miles a year and prefers the style and flexibility...