Volkswagen Problems

I understand what you're trying to do, and the Amarok wheel might well fit, but I wouldn't recommend it. The Amarok wheels are 16 x 6.5-inch, the Q5's are 17 x 8-inch. Go to an Audi dealer, or a specialist mechanic and try to find a more suitable steel wheel.

I don't believe it does.

The Amarok is rated to tow 3000 kg, which would make it marginal for your needs given that you want to tow around three tonnes. The Ranger and BT-50 are rated at 3500 kg, which would make them more suitable for you. The Ranger and the BT-50 are the same vehicle, it's only the features that separate them. For me, of those you list the Mazda is the best value-for-money.

Both are fine choices. I believe it comes down to the use you plan for it. A diesel works at its best when it's constantly running and fully warmed-up, preferably at a constant speed. The petrol engine is better in transient traffic conditions where the car is always accelerating or slowing. If you live in the city I would go for the petrol engine, if you live out of town then the diesel is probably better.

You are choosing from a good line-up as all three of your contenders get The Tick from me. My personal ranking puts the Passat ahead of the Outback but there is no reason not to go ahead with the Subaru.

Audi was caught up in the same DSG automatic transmission problems that afflicted VW, but you would hope that those problems have been sorted out on the later models such as the 2015 car you're looking to buy. Apart from that doubt the A1 is generally a sound car. As for servicing costs the A1 is about the same as the VW.

The VW brand has been tarnished somewhat with the automatic gearbox and the diesel emission issues, and that could be turning people off. It does sound like a decent car, however, one that would be worth looking at. It might be a case of setting a price that no one can ignore. The guiding price range is $11,000 to $13,000, so perhaps consider dropping it below that.

I am reluctant to recommend any European car, particularly those from VW, because of the problems that have soured the ownership experience for so many people. Rather than those you name I would be looking at the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V or Suzuki Vitara.