Having driven a good workhorse for the last seven years, a Vauxhall Astra Estate, I am now in a position to buy a new car for the first time in my life, at age 73 years. I am looking for a stylish, reliable, front wheel drive car, with a boot that can hold my golf clubs and trolley; it must be economical to run, and drive equally well down country lanes and on the motorways.

The Vauxhall was great for manoeuvrability, and had a good lock, but now I need a more spacious interior with easy to read dials. I have been looking at the Skoda Octavia Elegance but do not know whether to choose diesel or petrol and I would appreciate hearing from you whether you think it matches all my requirements.