Michael McAleer answers your questions
From W Collins:
I bought a Toyota Avensis D-4D last year. This is a smashing car and works well with two children. However, I found out that we are expecting number three in the summer, and the third car seat is next to impossible to fit in the back as the back seat rises up in the middle. I wanted to change the car and get a seven-seater, though not a huge MPV and I found that I have a problem.
I wanted to stick to the Toyota range, but the only one I can get new is the Corolla Verso.
This is a nice car but the engine is too big. I found the petrol too noisy and anyway I want a diesel. I have looked at the VW Touran 1.9tdi but it is too much like a van and I looked at the Ford S-Max but just didn't like it.
I looked at a Citroën but the residual values are poor. I was going to buy a VW Sharan but I am afraid the model will change as it's out since 2001. I only got into the Toyota brand last year, and to change makes again is very expensive. Maybe you could help.
Your criteria is pretty tight and I have to say that I would have suggested the Ford S-Max to you, but you say you don't like it.
There are several smaller five-seater models that can accommodate your growing family and still keep the engine as a diesel and the size down. For a start, there's the Opel Zafira with a 1.9-litre diesel engine and the Mazda 5MPV, though it is a 2-litre diesel.
I admit I'm a bit confused as to how you find the VW Touran "like a van" but would consider buying a Sharan at the same time.
From SM, Foxrock:
I need to replace my Peugeot 106 with a small car of similar size, but it must be an automatic. What are my options?
I would suggest two cars: the Daihatsu Charade 1.1-litre automatic, which starts at €12,845 and the Kia Picanto 1.1 LX automatic which starts at €13,995. The Charade is not the best looking car in the world, but offers plenty of practical interior space for its price and is very functional, with a peppy little engine. The Picanto has more charming looks and would be our choice, but the price might put you off.
From Eddie Gray:
Maybe you could help settle an argument. Who is responsible for the road signage on the main roads in Ireland including motorways? Is it the local authorities or is it the NRA?
The National Roads Authority is responsible for road signage on our motorways, dual carriageways and on all national roads. On the rest of our roads responsibility rests with the Department of the Environment and the local authorities.
From Ken Keogh :
I have been driving a Mercedes A class (2001 Auto) for the past four years and I am now considering changing it. While it has presented some quirks there are a number of features which I have found advantageous. These include the elevated driving position, wide doors providing easy access and the good use of cabin/storage space. All of these are on my list of priorities in selecting another car.
On visiting a Peugeot dealer garage recently I was offered a drive in a Peugeot 1007 SE (2005). I was quite impressed with the driving position, the overall specification and the high standard of safety equipment. Concerns would be the reliability of the electrics for the doors (and their safety), the very limited boot space, and the extended backward arm-stretch for the driver and front passenger seat belts. The other doubt I have is that there do not appear to be very many of these vehicles on the road - is this a measure of failure or does it represent reluctance on the part of the Irish motorist to embrace such a radical concept car?
I am trading in and the dealership has offered quite a competitive change fee. So I would be very grateful if you could give me any guidance by way of general comments.
I would not be a fan of the 1007. Even Peugeot would accept that the car has been something of a flop in sales terms across Europe. It's hard to pinpoint why it has not worked, but the electric doors that are slow to operate and its sluggish performance have not endeared it to the public. Basically the body is too heavy for the engine range. It's also priced quite high compared to similar small/tall competitors.
The dealer may be offering a good deal, but ask yourself what sort of reception will you get when you come back to him with a three year-old 1007? In terms of space and value, you'd be better getting a 207 from him. It's very spacious, has good access and is roughly the same price. Alternatively you could also take a look at the Honda Jazz.
From WW, Dublin:
We currently have a Mazda6 estate and find it's great for towing a caravan. However, it can all get too much for the Mazda if the ground is wet and muddy.
We've had some very close encounters where I wasn't sure if we would be able to get out of particularly muddy campsites last autumn and before we take to the road again this year we're going to be changing cars. I don't need, can't afford and don't want an SUV, but perhaps something with a little more ability on the wet grass.
There are several "soft-roader" SUVs on the market that would fit your bill, but you probably appreciate the extra luggage space of an estate car so we'll stick to your brief and stay clear of the mainstream SUV market.
What you need is four-wheel-drive and while diesel has always the best low-end torque for towing, the Subaru Forrester frequently comes out tops in caravaning magazines, despite its 2-litre petrol engine. Actually the Mazda6 2-litre diesel estate is also always rated very highly in "towing circles" but for the extra grip you should look to the Forrester. The problem is that it's not cheap to keep on the road. Perhaps it's time to bite the bullet and get into the SUV market.
Send your queries to Motors Helpdesk, The Irish Times, Tara St, Dublin 2, or e-mail motorshelp@irish-times.ie