Alex Robbins

Alex Robbins describes a year of owning a used three-year-old Hyundai Ioniq 5 as a family car. A battery health test showed 99% remaining capacity, while real-world motorway range was about 240 miles in summer and 200 miles in winter. Fast charging generally added little time to long journeys, and the car was largely faultless apart from a charging-door issue and an intermittent air-conditioning fan problem. Home charging reduced the cost of 12,000 miles to an estimated £282, compared with about £1,822 for his previous diesel Skoda Superb, although servicing was more expensive than expected because of the battery coolant change. Robbins would buy another used EV, provided it came with a battery health check and a long warranty.

The Jeep Compass offers strong value, generous equipment, a roomy 550-litre boot and practical family-focused interior space, with prices starting below £35,000. However, it lacks four-wheel drive for now, performs modestly off-road and has weaknesses including an unsettled ride, fiddly touchscreen, slow e-Hybrid powertrain, limited towing capacity and disappointing rear-seat materials. The electric version offers up to 310 miles of range but is relatively inefficient and takes 36 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 per cent. Overall, it should appeal to buyers prioritizing chunky styling, equipment and low payments over driving refinement or authentic Jeep capability.

Replacing the head unit in a 2016 Nissan Pulsar at a quoted cost of more than £4,000 is considered disproportionate to the car’s value. Lower-cost alternatives include sending the existing unit to a specialist for repair, fitting a guaranteed secondhand unit and paying a Nissan dealer roughly £150 to code it, or installing an aftermarket stereo through a car-audio specialist. Each option involves trade-offs around inconvenience, reliability, compatibility and guarantees. The column also advises an eight-year-old Honda Jazz owner to consider another Jazz, praising its compact dimensions, hybrid system, automatic gearbox and practical folding seats. The Toyota Yaris and Aygo X are viable alternatives, while the smaller Kia Picanto offers easier parking but has an inferior automatic transmission.

The Toyota Urban Cruiser is a comfortable, refined and sensible small electric SUV with good front-seat space, a smooth ride, strong fit and finish, and a potentially long service-activated warranty. However, its 49kWh and 61kWh batteries deliver relatively modest range, while the 67kW charging system is slow compared with rivals such as the Hyundai Kona Electric and Renault 4 E-Tech. Limited rear space, a tiny boot and sluggish, confusing infotainment further weaken its appeal. Despite competitive pricing, the review concludes that the Urban Cruiser is another underwhelming step for Toyota's EV ambitions.

A buying guide compares affordable used estate cars for UK staycations during a fuel crisis, arguing that estates generally offer more luggage space and better fuel economy than similarly sized SUVs. Recommendations span the Kia Ceed Sports Wagon, Ford Mondeo Estate, SEAT Leon ST, Škoda Superb Estate, Suzuki Swace, BMW 5-Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, with each selected for a balance of practicality, comfort, reliability, driving enjoyment and running costs. The Subaru Outback is singled out for avoidance because its four-wheel drive and inefficient engines make it unnecessarily thirsty for most buyers.

A four-year-old Audi Q2 with fewer than 40,000 miles suffered engine seizure after a thrust-washer failure. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 does not guarantee free repairs for six years: after six months, the owner would need independent evidence of an inherent defect and might have to pursue the matter in court. Audi customer service should first be approached for a goodwill contribution, particularly because the car was serviced by franchised dealers and is only recently out of warranty. A separate case concerns a 2011 Volkswagen Golf whose 1.6-litre diesel engine has suffered a fuel-injector failure. Because other injectors are likely to fail, replacing all three remaining units may be sensible, though the owners should seek cheaper quotes from specialists. Replacing the Golf with a newer, warranted car could provide greater reliability and peace of mind, but would involve higher depreciation.

Hyundai’s revised i20 drops its mild-hybrid system, sacrificing 10bhp but lowering cost and freeing substantial boot space, which rises from 262 to 352 litres. The well-equipped, roomy supermini offers a comfortable ride, quiet engine and five-year unlimited-mileage warranty, although its interior feels cheap, its performance is modest and fuel economy trails the best rivals. At £24,915, it is judged a sensible and improved buy, though the Renault Clio offers more driving enjoyment and the Dacia Sandero remains the strongest value option.

Speed‑limit recognition systems in modern vehicles remain unreliable due to limitations in camera technology and inconsistent GPS data, yet EU rules require them to be installed and activated in new cars. Citroën’s system behaves similarly to others, leaving drivers with few options beyond disabling it manually. For buyers seeking an electric replacement for a Skoda Fabia, the Renault 4 offers strong capability, with the Citroën e‑C3 Aircross providing greater comfort and the Hyundai Inster offering stronger warranty coverage despite a shorter range.

Comparing Volvo’s new electric ES90 with earlier S90 and V70 models highlights improved refinement and range but a shift away from traditional Volvo values of pragmatism, visibility and practicality. The ES90 offers strong performance, premium interior materials and excellent long‑distance comfort, yet is let down by a small boot, compromised visibility, distracting touchscreen controls and a high floor that limits space. Earlier models demonstrate more practicality and clarity of purpose, while competing electric saloons from BMW and Audi offer greater space, power or more intuitive controls for similar prices.

A reader is advised that a garage fitting the wrong steering pump to their Mercedes likely breached the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and should correct the fault or offer a refund, with Section 75 credit card protection available if they refuse. Another reader’s rejected Mini battery warranty claim is resolved after intervention, with Mini acknowledging mishandling, offering goodwill compensation, and the original dealer refunding the battery cost.

Chery targets repeat UK sales success with the Omoda 7, a larger and more practical sibling to the bestselling Jaecoo 7, offering strong equipment levels, a refined hybrid powertrain and competitive pricing. Despite improved steering, generous space and higher-quality materials, the SUV’s firm ride and limited long-term warranty coverage detract from its appeal. Positioned against rivals such as the Geely Starray and Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid, the Omoda 7 delivers notable value for buyers prioritizing affordability and utility over premium refinement.

Battery replacements for older plug‑in hybrids can be costly, but increasing availability of independent specialists and repair options is expected to limit depreciation once warranties expire. Larger‑battery hybrids may experience issues sooner due to heavy charging cycles, but improved repair methods should keep them viable. For drivers considering a small EV, insurance and tax tend to be higher, but home charging can be cost‑effective with available grants. A Renault 5 is recommended as a practical and enjoyable option, though keeping a well‑functioning older Skoda Citigo remains a sensible alternative.

The latest Polestar 3 gains significant technical upgrades including an 800-volt battery enabling rapid charging and improved suspension refinement, making it one of the best‑riding electric SUVs. Despite strong performance, spaciousness and high‑quality materials, its heavy reliance on touchscreen controls undermines usability and safety. Positioned against rivals such as the BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, it offers competitive range and comfort but is priced at a premium. With a more intuitive control layout, it could challenge the class leaders more effectively.

A Hyundai Ioniq 5 owner concerned that a warranty battery replacement reduced range is assured the battery size was not changed and that the lower estimate is due to the system resetting and lacking previous driving data. The vehicle’s real‑world range and calculation method explain the difference, which should correct over time. A Kia Sportage PHEV owner is advised that while repeatedly charging to 100 percent accelerates battery degradation, the impact on PHEVs is minor due to their smaller batteries and reliance on petrol power, making full charges far less consequential.

Intermittent warning beeps in a 2016 Volkswagen Polo are likely caused by a momentary fault in the handbrake sensor or its wiring, and monitoring or replacing the sensor is advised. For a reader seeking to replace two older cars with one newer and more economical model, leasing is considered less cost‑effective than purchasing outright. A Hyundai Kona is recommended for those able to charge at home, while the Toyota Yaris Cross is suggested as a dependable and efficient hybrid alternative.

A limited‑run Skoda Fabia 130 delivers accessible driving fun through a poised chassis and well‑calibrated controls, despite its engine lacking excitement and its price edging close to more powerful rivals. Interior changes make it less sporty than the Monte Carlo version, though practicality remains strong with generous rear space and usable controls. Suspension, steering updates and exclusive features enhance driving engagement, providing a warm‑hatch experience reminiscent of earlier eras. Competing models such as the Volkswagen Polo GTI and Mini Cooper S offer higher power, but the Fabia 130 stands out for its balance and everyday usability.

A selection of affordable used convertibles from £2,500 to £15,000 is evaluated for low running costs and driving enjoyment, with recommendations including the Mini R52, Smart Roadster, Volkswagen Golf Mk6 TDI, Mazda MX-5 Mk4 and Audi TT Mk3 TDI. Key strengths include fuel economy, reasonable tax bands, and accessible purchase prices, while common faults to watch for are noted for each model. The Renault Megane CC is advised against due to electrical problems, water ingress and poor driving dynamics.

New cars often overwhelm older drivers with touchscreen-heavy controls, prompting demand for simpler models. Several cars stand out for ease of use, including the Honda Jazz with clear physical controls, the Citroën C3 with simple displays and easily disabled driver aids, and the minimalistic Dacia Sandero and practical Dacia Duster. The Hyundai Kona earns praise for intuitive button-and-screen layout and strong electric performance, while the Mazda CX-30 combines attractive design with an ergonomic, non-touchscreen interface. The Geely EX5 is singled out as overly complicated, with essential functions hidden in touchscreen menus, making it unsuitable for those seeking simplicity.

The Geely EX5 offers generous space, strong equipment levels and an unusually long warranty, giving it strong value despite uninspiring styling and significant touchscreen usability issues. Its ride quality suffers on rough roads due to stiffened anti-roll characteristics, though it remains adequate for everyday use. Interior materials and storage solutions are well executed, but reliance on a slow, complex touchscreen undermines functionality. Against rivals such as the Skoda Elroq and Omoda E5, it competes on price and roominess but falls short in driving refinement and user‑friendliness.

A Toyota Yaris is recommended as the safest, most reliable and cheapest‑to‑insure first car for a £3,000 budget, with strong durability, low running costs and excellent period safety scores. The Hyundai i20 and Kia Rio are offered as dependable alternatives with low tax and good fuel economy, while the Ford Fiesta is described as affordable and easy to drive but less robust. A separate query about a Peugeot 207’s intermittent stalling points to potential issues with its pollution control system, ECU diagnostics, fusebox faults, fuel pressure problems or the EGR valve, with a main‑dealer diagnostic suggested for accurate fault identification.

A buyer of a used BMW 325i may still have a case under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 after discovering severely worn brake discs, though failing to notify the dealer before repair complicates the claim. A judge might rule in the buyer’s favor due to safety concerns and the recent MOT, but pursuing compensation will likely require small‑claims action and legal advice. In a separate query, suitable petrol SUV alternatives to the Ford Kuga include the Kia Sportage, Honda CR‑V and Volvo XC60, with the Sportage offering the best overall value despite slightly less accessible seating dimensions.

KGM’s new Torres Hybrid aims to lift the brand beyond its budget reputation with a large, well‑equipped SUV featuring a BYD‑derived hybrid system. The model offers strong interior space, smooth power integration and decent driving dynamics but is held back by poor real‑world fuel economy, limited towing capability and interior quality that trails Korean rivals. Although competitively priced, it struggles to outperform better‑refined alternatives, and increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers further undermines its value case.

Students whose cars are registered at their family home are not considered visitors by councils, making them ineligible to use visitor parking permits. Registering a car at a term‑time address avoids fines and simplifies insurance, though it may require frequent address changes. To bypass household permit limits, a car can be registered at another trusted address outside the permit zone, provided insurers are correctly informed. In guidance on replacing a high‑mileage estate car, the Mercedes E400d is recommended as the strongest long‑term choice, followed by the Audi Q7, with alternatives such as the Volkswagen Arteon R, Volkswagen Touareg, Lexus RX and BMW 5 Series Touring each offering different strengths.

Audi attributed an engine failure that occurred shortly after a routine service to a faulty oil‑pressure‑regulating valve and rejected liability, stating the vehicle was long out of warranty and serviced correctly. The customer was advised to seek legal guidance before pursuing action, as Audi claimed to have supporting evidence. Requests for goodwill compensation were declined. Additional advice recommended using an independent specialist for repairs and offered guidance on suitable used SUVs for towing, highlighting models such as the Kia Sorento, Volvo XC60 and Ford Edge for varying strengths in reliability, cost and capability.

Peugeot’s new 208 Style 100 re-enters the small‑car market at under £20,000, offering attractive design, solid equipment and lively urban performance but facing strong competition from cheaper and better‑equipped rivals such as the Renault Clio and Dacia Sandero. While its engine noise, cramped rear seating and touchscreen-reliant climate controls detract from comfort, it remains economical, good‑looking and enjoyable to drive. Competitive pricing from other brands limits its appeal, yet its arrival signals renewed industry focus on affordable compact cars.

Recommendations focus on non-hybrid small automatic petrol cars, highlighting the Seat Arona, Hyundai Bayon and Kia Stonic as viable options, with the mild‑hybrid Citroën C3 considered the best value if hybrid assistance is acceptable. A secondary discussion explains super‑diesel’s benefits, noting its stronger detergents and higher cetane rating can reduce carbon buildup, though using it occasionally or adding fuel‑system cleaner may be more cost‑effective than exclusive use.

Six small used cars around £2,000 are recommended as reliable and cost‑effective choices, with the Vauxhall Corsa ranked best for value, ease of maintenance and all‑round capability. The Honda Jazz, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Yaris, Mini Hatch and Hyundai i20 are each highlighted for strengths such as reliability, practicality and driving enjoyment, alongside cautions about common faults. The Chevrolet Aveo is advised against due to outdated engineering, poor driving dynamics and low overall quality.

The Citroën ë-C5 Aircross delivers strong value in its entry-level form, offering real-world range of around 300 miles and benefiting from the full UK plug‑in grant to bring its price below £33,000. Interior quality, practicality and touchscreen usability have improved, though comfort has dipped compared with the previous model. Higher trims lose cost‑effectiveness due to limited grant eligibility. On the road, the car provides good cruising ability and stability but lacks distinctiveness and ride softness. Despite shortcomings, it remains an appealing, spacious and well‑priced alternative to more expensive or less efficient rivals.

Diesel SUVs are currently undervalued due to high fuel prices, making models like the BMW X5 30d attractive purchases compared with petrol alternatives, while options such as the Volvo XC60 and Kia Sorento offer varying levels of value and equipment. Owners of Japanese‑import Jaguars face resistance from dealers due to limited service histories and buyer preference for UK‑market cars, but enthusiast groups and JDM specialists provide more promising routes for sale.

Seven used cars under £5,000 are recommended across different needs, including the Volkswagen Up for city driving, the Seat Leon for families, the Mazda MX-5 for open-top fun, the Hyundai i30 BlueDrive for low running costs, the Honda CR-V for dog owners, the Ford S-Max for seven-seat practicality and the Audi TT for style. The BMW 1-Series from the same price range is advised against due to reliability issues, poor ride quality and an unappealing interior.