Skoda Problems

With local production shutting down the big-car choices are getting fewer and fewer, but right now you can still buy a Calais if that's what you like. You can also buy an equivalent Falcon or Toyota Aurion. There are more expensive cars, from the likes of BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi etc. that would suit, but they come with a much higher price tag than a Calais. Others you could try are a Skoda Superb, a Honda Accord V6 Luxury if you're prepared to give up a little in size, and there's also the Chrysler 300C.

All model years 2008-2013 appear to be affected.

We understand a new tensioner was fitted from 2012.

The Skoda Kodiaq is available with either a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine or a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel. The claimed fuel consumption of the turbo petrol engine is 7.6 L/100 km; the consumption of the turbo- diesel is 5.9 L/100 km combined.

Both are fun cars to drive, they’re relatively new, so should be reliable. I would prefer the Swift; I reckon you’ll get a better run out of it.

All of the cars you name meet your criteria of size, economy, performance and handling.

You could also add the Mazda3 and 6 to the list.

Of all of those I would nominate the Camry as the great all-rounder.