Ask the Expert: Kia EV3 vs MG4, Recall Worries, and Selling Your Car Without the Hassle

Ask the Expert with Paul Gover

Q: I purchased a 2023 Toyota Kluger brand-new from a Toyota dealership and, since then, it has been subject to four recalls, two of which were described as critical.
While all recall work has been carried out, I’m feeling uncertain about what this means for me as an owner in the longer term. In particular, I’m hoping you might be able to offer some guidance on what rights consumers have in situations like this, and whether multiple — especially critical — recalls are likely to have any real impact on resale value down the track?
Bel Slattery

A: Recalls are often driven by consumer law, not an intrinsic safety risk. Many times it is something reported overseas, often in the USA, which leads to a worldwide recall. Car companies all do rectification work on recalls. There is no threat to your car or your future value. Provided the work is done, and a lot of people do not get things done, then the car is fine into the distant future.

Q: I currently drive a 2015 Mazda3 SP25 GT and I wish to upgrade to a similar size car that is an EV.  The two cars that I have been considering are the Kia EV3 and the MG4 Essence.  I do want a longer range, safety, good cameras, maps, lane assist, vision, heated seats, comfort and reliability.  Our price maximum is probably around that of the Kia.  But I’m only driving 10k per year, mainly in and around Melbourne and the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas.  I’m retired and often drive the young  grandchildren around too.  Do you have a preference between the two?
Barbara Le Maitre

A: I definitely rate the EV3 well ahead of the MG, although your view might be skewed by pricing. The Kia is actually my current first choice for a compact fully-electric car.

Q: I live in Melbourne and I would be pleased if you could give me some general advice on the sale of my car as I am approaching 84 years old  and I have decided that it is time to give up driving. I have a 2011 Ford Focus Titanium four-door 2.0L  with 133,000 kilometres on the clock. The car had always been serviced by Ford. Normally I would be going and buying another car, so would trade the old one.  I do not feel I am able to sell privately, as I would have difficulty handling different people coming and trying  to test the car etc. I understand that while the car is a good little car, it is not worth a fortune.  Can you suggest how it is best to dispose of the car  and still get a fair price.
Jim Kennett

A: Best would be to sell in the ‘family-and-friends’ circle. They will know that it’s a good purchase and you will be happy to help someone along the road. It would be fine for a P-plater or someone you know who is not doing many kilometres. To check a proper value, head to www.carsales.com.au and enter your car’s details, as if you were looking to buy. It will give you pricing for similar cars.

Q: I am hoping to get your honest opinion regarding two car options I have: Kia Sorento Sport AWD diesel or Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid AWD? I currently drive a 2022 Subaru Forester and am looking forward to a change in car, something bigger. But I feel like I might be losing out on some bells and whistle with the KIA or Hyundai options. More importantly, I’m interested in your views about the driver’s comfort and lumbar support each KIA or Hyundai, offer/don’t offer?
Stefan Bernardi.

A: It’s the same car. Hyundai-Kia is one car conglomerate in South Korea, producing vehicles that are twins under the skin. You need to go and sit in both of your finalists to find the best seat fit for you. In 2026 more than ever, a hybrid is a better bet than a diesel. As for ‘bells and whistles’, they are being used by Chinese brands to entice buyers and both Kia and Hyundai will have plenty to enjoy.

Q: We bought a Nissan Qashqai on your advice. A great car. We heard that Nissan were not building new ones but they are moving further to Hybrids.
Mark Higgins

A: No need to panic. Nissan is still building the Qashqai and the brand will continue in the foreseeable future in Australia. Hybrids are the smart pick now for efficiency and the Nissan system, called e-Power is one of the best as it always drives fully electric and the vehicle’s combustion engine is only used to charge the onboard hybrid battery.

Q: I had a recent service of my i30 at my local Hyundai dealer, when the GPS maps were to be updated as part of service. On completion of service I was advised that the SD navigation card was corrupt, when it was working perfectly when they received my car, and it was now my issue to pay to have it replaced, which is a considerable cost. My car is a 2019 model, low mileage and recently out of warranty. After research on the SD card it appears that corruption is rare, and incorrect operation of update and hardware are more likely responsible. Do you think it is worth me pursuing this issue, as I feel my car has depreciated, without the navigation programme working, and I expected my car to be in same condition as when I left it in their care.
Judith Segrave.

A: SD cards are rubbish for navigation and onboard systems are now ruthlessly out of date. Best is to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, using smartphone connection, and a specialist App. My choice is Waze as it’s always current, easy to use, and free.