Leasing a hatchback – what would you recommend?

I'm looking for a 5 door hatchback to lease which is reliable and a good runner for long distances. I have it down to the following four, Honda Civic 2.2 i DTEC 16v, Volvo V40 1.6 D, Volkswagen Golf...

Why should I pay for insurance on a courtesy car after my new Volvo broke down?

I have used Volvos exclusively for the past 25 years. On 19 October 2012 I bought my brand new V40 and took it on the road for the first time. Within five minutes I had to return it because "Software Malfunction"...

Ecoboost or TSI?

I would like to buy a Volvo V40, Ford Focus or Seat Leon but wonder which model has the better engine (reliability, consumption, power)? As I want decent performance for reasonable money, I'm considering...

When should I replace the cam belt on my Volvo V40?

I own a 1999 Nissan Micra that has done 122,00 miles without any problems. When my husband died this year I inherited his 2000 Volvo V40 diesel that has the same miles on the clock, though at 99,494 miles...

Volvo Powershift transmission - any good?

I would like to ask you if you recommend Volvo V40 D2 with powershift (the car is slower vs manual?, gear changes with this engine?). Also, do you know if Volvo intends to replace powershift with another...

Which 4WD to replace my Toyota RAV4?

My Toyota RAV4 has been a good and reliable servant for the last ten years but, at 110,000 miles, it’s beginning to creak a bit, so I'm thinking about a replacement. We need space for passengers and for...

Volvo V40 gearbox confusion

I'm confused about the auto gearboxes available on the Volvo V40. Although you refer to Powershift gearboxes in the review, the technical details refer to Geartronic boxes. Can you advise which is actually...

Day time running lights - are they mandatory?

I am contemplating the purchase of a new car in the UK and understood that EU Directive 2008/89/EC made dedicated daytime running lights mandatory for all new cars after February 2011. Why, then, does...

Can we get a discount on a new model?

I am very tempted to buy a new Volvo 1.6l 150bhp V40 when they hit the showrooms in the near future. Is it feasible to ask for a discount on this new model and, if so, how much? I would be trading in...

Which compact estate?

I'm looking to get a bigger car, as with now 2 children I have well and truly outgrown my Fiat Panda! I'd prefer a compact estate over an MPV as they tend to have better fuel efficiency and lower tax...