ASK THE EXPERT With Paul Gover
If you have a motoring question, ask Paul by emailing community@startsat60.com
Q: Please advise what vehicle(s) you consider is/are the best to comfortably tow a caravan up to a weight of two tonnes.
I am looking to travel around Australia for a duration of at least two years and have a budget of $65,000 approximately.
Craig Sampson
A: If you’re going full-time on the caravan, then it comes down to two: Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X. They are the SUV derivatives of the Ranger and D-Max pick-ups, so tough and durable. The Everest, like the Ranger, is the best of the group thanks to great local development work in Australia. You should also consider a Toyota Prado, but the value won’t be as good.
Q: I am in my 70s and currently drive a 2017 Volkswagen Golf and I’m looking for a new small SUV so it’s easier to get in and out.
I’m looking at a VW T-Roc – expensive if I want all the features – a Honda ZRV, with cheaper maintenance and eight-year warranty, or the small Kia SUV.
I love the zippiness of the golf and have never had any mechanical issues with it.
But I’m open to any advice as there are so many small SUVs on the market that I’m confused.
Marysia Murray
A: You should be rewarding yourself and enjoying driving, even if you have to switch to an SUV. With that in mind, my pick is the Honda ZR-V. It’s a classy little car, comes as a fuel-efficient hybrid, and is less ’truck-like’ than a lot of SUVs which are just giant jacked-up boxes.
Q: My wife’s 2017 Honda Civic VTec turbo is due for its 100,000km service and they say the replacement plugs cost over $100 each.
If we don’t use these plugs it will affect the timing.
True or rip off?
Rod Hoey
A: Honda does use top-quality iridium and platinum plugs in its engines, which are necessary but expensive. Your existing plugs have lasted for eight years, which proves the point. My basic research shows $100 should cover four plugs, but you need to research the exact type for your car – based on the vehicle’s VIN – from a reputable supplier. Depending on the workshop, you should be able to bring your own plugs. But check first. Remember, too, that workshops also have giant mark-ups on things like engine oil.
Q: I believe there are some issues with Mazda engines and I’m thinking about an MX-5 purely as a fun, weekend-type car.
So, is there anything else that compares or gets close to the MX-5?
Do you know of any updates Mazda has in store for MY2026 ?
Daud Ally
A: The MX-5 is still the benchmark for affordable sports cars. The Toyota 86 is some fun, but not like an MX-5. There is no major model change in the pipeline, but Mazda usually does an annual tweak with colours and trim and suchlike.
Q: Can I please have your thoughts on a 2024 Skoda Kamiq 85Tsi auto fwd MY 23.5 with 14,000kms please?
My son would like to trade in his 2009 Volkswagen Golf for a small SUV, but he can’t afford a T-Roc and has been advised that the Skoda might be a good option.
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Tahni Cann
A: Skoda is a great choice. Its cars are basically a VW in different clothes. Mechanicals are identical, body is different shape with Skoda tweaks. It’s an under-appreciated brand in Australia Go for it.
Q: My 33-year-old daughter is planning to buy a used station wagon because she has two large-ish dogs which she want to be able put in the back storage area without putting the back seats.
She wants this car to last and budget is $20-25,000.
She likes the Volkswagen Passat or even a (scarce) Holden station wagon.
I’ve suggested Toyota, Subaru Outback, Mazda6.
But all these types of car without 100,00kms are hard to find.
What would you recommend is good?
Mary Kinch
A: For me, it’s an easy one. Skoda. Either the Octavia or the larger (especially in the back) Superb. Wonderful station wagons, from the VW stable. I put my nephew into one and he is onto his third. No need to get more confused by looking at anything else.