Why is my new Citroen C3 less fuel efficient than my old one?

One year ago I part-exchanged a 2006 Citroen C3 for a new Citroen C3 1.6 HDi (April 2009) with the same engine. The previous 1.6 HDi engine gave me very good fuel economy, 60mpg with mixed driving and...

Is there such a thing as a small MPV with four-wheel drive?

I am looking for a small MPV that provides a relatively high driving position. I have a C3 Picasso and like the driving position so am now looking for something similar for my wife, who has back issues....

Recommend a fun, quirky car - possibly a convertible - for under £7000?

I will soon graduate from university, and will be starting work at the end of the summer. Before I do so, I am looking to purchase a car that is both economical to run and insure but that is also quirky...

Would you recommend a Mercedes-Benz C-Class or E-Class for long-distance comfort?

I have a budget of around £16,000 and would like a car which is comfortable over long distances. I am thinking secondhand. I really want heated leather seats, a cup holder and the capability of doing in...

Fat chance(llor)

This should be passed to as many people as possible! When VAT was temporarily reduced to 15%, the Chancellor added 2% duty to fuel to offset the reduction in tax collected from motorists. Now that VAT...

Winter fuel

My regularly serviced 2005 1600cc Ford Focus automatic has never given a high mileage per gallon - usually about 28-31mpg for short and medium journeys although better on a long journey. Lately this has...

Thirst among equals

I purchased a ‘nearly new’ Honda Jazz 1.4EX with manual transmission in December 2009. The model has an official fuel consumption of between 42.8 (urban) and 58.9 (extra urban), but in reality, I am getting...

Is there an economical, reliable automatic car with cruise control for under £6000?

I want to buy a used car. My budget is £6000. Could you please tell me the choice of cars I could have with the following specifications? Fuel economy of 45- 50mpg, automatic gearbox, cruise control and...

Would you recommend a high mileage BMW 3 Series E46 as a first car?

I am 24 years old with only named driver insurance and am now in the position to purchase my first car. I am looking for a car which is fun to drive, safe, with acceptable insurance and economical. I have...

Could you recommend a petrol car with a large boot to replace our Mazda 6?

I was extremely concerned to read about the problems with the Mazda 6 Diesel as I have a TS2 Diesel Estate with a 56 plate. I check the oil every fortnight, but on reading your column last night I checked...