I'm looking for a new car to replace my Astra

I currently own a Vauxhall Astra CDTi (120) - it's lovely but is seven years old and needs to be replaced. I am currently considering a Ford Focus or Nissan Qashqai. I like a car with a bit of thrust,...

Why are new cars sold with misleading fuel economy figures, like my new Ford Focus EcoBoost?

I would like to warn any of your readers wishing to save money on fuel that the new Ford 1.0 EcoBoost engine is not the way to go. I recently bought the Ford Focus Zetec EcoBoost 125 and the mpg is seriously...

Could you do a long range economy test on a hybrid vs a modern diesel?

I love diesels as they suit the terrain here in southern Spain; lots of steep hills where you do not need to change to a lower gear to easily get up them, but we have to go with the flow I guess. I have...

How can I tell whether a hire vehicle is petrol or diesel?

We hired a Ford Focus last week but were concerned when we came to refuel the car. On opening the fuel inlet there were signs for a black fuel pump, i.e. diesel, and also a green pump, saying super unleaded....

I want to fit higher-profile tyres to my Ford Fiesta

I've just bought a July 2009 Fiesta 1.4 Titanium. It has low profile Pirelli tyres on it, and has a tyre repair kit in the boot. Ideally I'd like to replace the tyres with 'normal' higher-profile ones,...

What car £3000

Can you recommend me a car for around £3000 please? I want something that is cheap to insure and tax, and is decent on fuel but won’t cost a lot to maintain. I’m not overly concerned about looks or speed,...

Ford Focus - warranty vs wear and tear

My car is due out of warranty next month. I have just been advised by Green Flag (starting problem) that the fan belt and tensioners are worn, and should be changed. The car has done 35,000 miles. Is...

Mum's looking for an easy to get into car

I have an elderly mother who is now finding it difficult to get into a normal car. Can you suggest small and medium cars that have high seating/floorpans? Not necessarily 4x4s...

I'm looking to downsize to a Ford Fiesta

I'm looking to downsize from 2008 Vauxhall Zafira 1.6 as I no longer the need an MPV. I like the look of the 2008 Ford Fiesta - what's the best engine? I do about 8000 miles a year (mixture of motorway/urban),...

Replacing my Volkswagen estate - which MPV?

I want to replace my 2000 Volkswagen Passat 1.8 petrol estate with something of a similar size. I need five seats plus room for a wheelchair, and it should be able to cope with regular short journeys....