Holden Problems

Comparing utes and SUVs is tough. I get complaints from Grand Cherokee owners, the HiLux is being replaced soon and the Outlander is nothing special. The Colorado SUV is probably best for you but drive a Hyundai Santa Fe before you commit.

Towing is all about torque, not power, as you want bottom-end grunt for the extra weight on the back. It's often the same with overtaking, so performance is not just about kilowatts. A turbodiesel will always beat a petrol engine for that pulling power.

The Commodore is more refined and a better drive than the Chrysler but don't forget the excellent Falcon XR8. It's now effectively a GT and, apart from the high seating position, has very few flaws at a great price.

I am not remotely a fan of the Trax. I'd suggest a test drive in a Mazda CX-5, which is best in class and gets The Tick, and then compare it with a couple of worthy rivals such as the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage. Or wait for the new wave of baby SUVs including the Mazda CX-3 and Renault Captur

There will be another minor tickle but a new gearbox is extremely unlikely as it's a very costly change.

I am convinced Holden has a systemic problem with the Cruze auto but the company refuses to admit it. Still, it is quietly replacing gearboxes at no cost and getting owners to sign confidentiality documents so they cannot reveal details.

Your problem sounds like many others reported to CarsGuide. You should immediately request a replacement via both your Holden dealer and Holden headquarters in Melbourne.

The Cerato is good choice and the long warranty makes it an easy decision. I get lots of complaints about the Cruze and would not recommend it.

On the surface it makes no sense at all. I would suggest that you go back and talk to the person who gave you that advice and get them to explain it to you in terms that you can understand it.

The biggest issue you're fighting with the VT is age. No matter what way you look at it, it's an old car and every car has problems with age. So the first thing to say is that you should shop around, and take your time to find the best car you can for the money you have to spend. Basically the VT is quite durable and standing up well over the long term. With the VT the 3.8-litre V6 engine is a pretty tough old nail and won't give you much trouble if it has been serviced properly with regular oil changes. Listen for rattling on start-up or smoke on acceleration. Inspect it for oil leaks, they can be expensive to repair. The auto transmission is generally ok, but might need a service if it's done a lot of kays. They can have trouble with fuel pumps and the suspension bushes wear-out, but they're relatively minor things that won't cost a lot to fix.