Mazda Problems

Our class favourite is the Mazda6 but the Toyota Camry, which is often overlooked despite getting The Tick, is great value at the moment and would be a smart choice.

The Holden is cheaper because more people are choosing the Ford. If it's close enough on features, and ahead on value, then park the dream for some reality. But perhaps also cross-shop the Mazda BT-50, which is a clone of the Ranger.

There is a lot more to car choice than one safety aspect. If you're not happy about one missing feature, you should look further into the class at something like the Mazda CX-5 which I give The Tick.

Our earlier comparisons are out of date with the arrival of new XV opponents including the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V and Renault Captur. The XV is now trailing those three, at least.

The Mazda CX-5 is my top pick and I also like the Hyundai ix35 for value, the Honda CR-V as a city runabout, and the base-model Subaru Forester as a family car.

Use Mazda ATF, which should be available at your local Mazda dealership.

We have had one or two other complaints about the rear springs on the Ranger, which presumably is the same as the BT-50. Like you I would be concerned if the springs on my vehicle were inverted, and I would not be happy about them riding on the bump stops, and I too would question the vehicle's ability to do what it is claimed to be capable of. I would take it to a suspension specialist and have it uprated to do what you want to do with it.

Seat height is really about outward vision, which can be affected by a person's body type as much as the seat, so she really needs to sit in the cars. I find the Honda HR-V has a good view but all the new baby SUVs have bodies styled for fashion first.

If the engine is damaged as you state the best option is probably to buy a sound used engine from a wrecker. Rebuilding the engine could cost $5000, a good used engine should be bought for less than $2000.

The Mazda6 is very good and great for the price but the Mercedes C-Class wagon is a couple of steps further up the ladder and an excellent car if you have the money.