Mazda Problems

The Polo is the best car on your list — and until the end of the year it is selling for $15,990 driveaway — but you should include the Honda Jazz, which is even better value for money.

The two new arrivals this year, the Mazda2 and Jazz, both get The Tick from me. The Jazz is better value in the basic car and the Mazda rival has a more substantial feel. Go for the Honda.

Stop-start is part of the engine management package and key to the car's fuel economy rating. That's why it's the default and why it can't be totally disabled. 

It's definitely not normal, based on the dozens of Mazdas I have driven. Get along to an aircon expert for a diagnosis as it could be something as simple as needing extra coolant gas.

I'm doing the same thing with my mother-in-law. A new car will be best with great value and excellent warranties. The three cars she needs to drive are the Honda Jazz, Mazda2 and Volkswagen Polo. All three get The Tick so go for her personal favourite. I'd go for the Jazz.

Moving out of a Statesman you will probably want some luxury, so that's definitely not a Captiva. I'd suggest you test drive a CX-5 and a Subaru Forester, both of which get The Tick, and choose between them.

It's OK but the Ford Ranger and Mazda BT-50 are better. The Mazda gets The Tick based on lower prices for better value.

People have always bought Alfas with their hearts and they are behind the Japanese on reliability and resale. There is an updated Giulietta coming next year, which I recently drove in Italy and enjoyed. Try it.

The Ranger is the winner, ahead of the Colorado and the HiLux (which gets replaced in the first half of next year). But don't forget to cross-shop the Ranger's Mazda BT-50 twin.