Ask The Guide

Check out the reports and comparos on our website where our road testers have consistently praised it in its class. I can only back up what has been reported, that it has decent fuel consumption, 5-star safety, and is well tuned to our roads.

Audi was caught up in the same DSG automatic transmission problems that afflicted VW, but you would hope that those problems have been sorted out on the later models such as the 2015 car you're looking to buy. Apart from that doubt the A1 is generally a sound car. As for servicing costs the A1 is about the same as the VW.

I would question the Renault if you're doing lots of kays in then country. I'm sure it would be reliable, but having it serviced when you need to could be an issue if you're away from a main city. The Kia is a good choice, so too are the Mazdas. You could add the Honda Accord, Subaru Liberty and Suzuki Kizashi to your list.

That's a rather subjective question that's almost impossible to answer. It also depends on what you call fun. Both would be fun to drive, but if I were to make the choice purely on the driving experience I would choose the BMW.

The fan only comes on when the temperature reaches a certain point under normal running, but always runs when the AC is turned on. It could be the thermostat sticking, but I would be getting a mechanic to pressure test the system first.

With 2000 kg towing capacity the Discovery Sport has the towing capacity you want, it's more than the CX-5, and it's not limited to 80 km/h like the Subaru is. That's a big plus. The only criticisms we've heard about are some niggling interior fit and finish issues, and one or two electrical gremlins. The Land Rover also has more ground clearance than the CX-5 and a traction control system better set up for actual off-road work. 

We don't have any specific information that might be of use to you, but I would suggest you seek the advice of a differential service. I'm sure they would be able to tell you of any other failures they have seen, and probably give you an opinion on the failure of yours.

It's silly when the car won't even get close to those ultra-high speeds, but I would guess it comes down to giving the illusion that it could. Like you I would rather have a speedo that is more relevant to the car I'm driving.

Both are fine choices. I believe it comes down to the use you plan for it. A diesel works at its best when it's constantly running and fully warmed-up, preferably at a constant speed. The petrol engine is better in transient traffic conditions where the car is always accelerating or slowing. If you live in the city I would go for the petrol engine, if you live out of town then the diesel is probably better.

I don't believe it does.