Which hatchback for short journeys?

I drive 8000 to 9000 miles per year, mostly shortish distances. I have to replace my Honda Accord diesel. I would like a 4-door saloon or hatchback, petrol at about £10,000 without trade-in, not more than...

Should I buy a large capacity diesel for short journeys?

I am considering buying a 2008 Range Rover TDV8, a 2010 Audi A8 TDI or a 2010 Jaguar XJ 3-litre diesel. Although I drive some long distance trips, predominately my journeys are under five miles. Do I...

Has Ford overcome the DPF problem by using an additive in its diesel engines?

I have followed with interest your comments on DPF problems. I have not experienced these with my own 2009 Volkswagen 2.0-litre turbodiesel, although at 8000 per year I still avoid too many short runs....

Our postal vans keep breaking down with DPF faults - do you have any comment?

As a keen reader of your columns in the Saturday Telegraph, I am well aware of the pitfalls of operating a modern diesel for short journeys. Our local postmen have been subjected to new "modern" work methods,...

My BMW 635d smells unpleasant - is this the DPF regenerating?

My 3-year-old BMW 635d occasionally produces an unpleasant smell from underneath. This can best be described as being like 'burning rubber' or 'dead mouse'. It is the only problem with an otherwise perfect...

Which 4WD vehicle for accessing tracks and green lanes?

I live half a mile off tarmac along forestry track and green lane. I have managed for 35 years with 2WD but the pattern of recent winters and regular snow seems to be set to last. Presently, I make do...

Which small family car with a diesel engine?

We have a 2-year-old and another on the way, so are looking to purchase a diesel (used mostly as a family runabout with the odd commute) for less than £4000. But it'll be the wife driving most of the time,...

How often do I need to take a DPF-equipped diesel for a long run?

We are looking to buy a diesel estate but have had conflicting advice on how often you have to take them out for longer, faster drives to avoid problems with DPFs. Is it twice a month or every couple of...

What do you think of the new 3 Series BMW?

I would welcome your advice as I want to replace my BMW 525d SE auto touring (E61), which I purchased new in 2005, with a smaller estate or hatchback, either diesel or petrol. Having had 10 BMWs on the...

Should I buy a used diesel?

I have driven Volvos with tremendous satisfaction since 1970, currently a V70 diesel estate, but now at 82 I am finding it difficult to get in and out of, mainly due to the low profile of modern cars these...