Kia Problems

Yes, you are. Kia has rectified the paint problem, so you have no issue there; they have done what they should have done. As for the price, well, prices go up and down and just because they are down below the price you paid for your cars doesn't mean you should get a refund. You paid the price you were offered at the time, end of story.

The 2015 MY Cerato was released in April 2014, so I would say you haven't been cheated.

The Avenso Versis is a good all-rounder in the people-mover class. Other people-movers you could consider are the Honda Odyssey, Kia Grand Carnival, or VW Caddy Life, you could consider SUVs like the Ford Territory or Nissan Dualis.

The running costs will be much the same for all three cars you mention, but the Grand Carnival is probably the better bet given your needs for carrying three teenagers and two young kids. The rear seats in the Prado and Kluger are probably not as suitable.

Looking at seven-seater SUVs, the new Kia Sorento is excellent in all areas to earn The Tick and the Nissan Pathfinder is a good choice. One of them should work for you, your budget and your towing duties.

Towball downweight is an important consideration and it's something we'll consider more closely in future.

You should drive and compare the CX-5, the long-term leader in its class, and the new Tucson. Don’t go for seven seats unless you really need them because of the extra price and ongoing penalty in running costs.

You need to have a mechanic observe the vibration first-hand and he might be able to diagnose it for you. It's impossible to diagnose without observing it. If you're really concerned about it take it back to the dealership where you bought it and try again to have them assess it for you.

The latest Carnival is excellent, gets The Tick and rates for me ahead of the Odyssey.