Our motoring aficionado Morgan Naidoo answers reader questions

Dear Morgan

I'm conflicted between buying a used A5 or Merc CLC or a Volvo S60. I'm also looking at the Hyundai ix35 or the Kia Sportage. When it comes to the Merc, I'm worried about their service plan. Please help me make a decision. - Mims

Dear Mims

That A5 is a very special car, beautiful-looking and with a sporty and dynamic driving personality.

There is a new Mercedes CLC, so you could pick up a previous generation one for a lower price that is suited to your budget. However, it may be out of maintenance plan.

I have to say the Volvo S60 is another beautiful car, not just safe but with real performance and power.

What you have here are two coupés (I'm assuming the A5 coupé is what you've looked at), a sexy four- door sedan and then two dark horse candidates in the form of the Korean SUVs.

My choice would be the underrated Volvo S60, or if the higher ride height and versatility of the SUV appeals to you then the Kia Sportage.

Dear Morgan,

I bought a second hand Renault Mégane Classic 1.6 last year in April because I needed a car urgently. It cost R35000 and was in good condition. However, I didn't pay attention to warnings about Renault's ridiculously priced parts, service, etc.

I worked really hard this year and I want to buy a new car and give the Mégane to my dad.

I have looked at the Ford Figo 1.4, Polo Vivo 1.4 hatch and the new Picanto and really like them.

Which one must I choose? - Khuli

Dear Khuli

I'm not sure what year model you bought, but the older the car the more likely it would be costly to maintain.

Having said that, Renault has reinvented itself over recent years with standardised parts pricing and upfront standard service costs.

Have you considered trading in the Mégane for the Renault Sandero? It is an affordable car with a well- laid-out interior and decent drive.

Your choices of Figo, Polo Vivo and Kia Picanto are different in that they are smaller cars than the larger Mégane you have become used to.

Both the Ford Figo and the Polo Vivo are essentially older generation cars redressed for new buyers. The Kia Picanto is the only one of the three that is new in terms of technology, design and an overall sense of a modern car - and it looks great too.

The Picanto starts at under R100 000 but you can buy a service plan on the models that don't have it as standard.

Test drive the three and you will find the Figo the least attractive with a slight lazy handling and "older" feel to it.

Polo has always been a strong contender and remains so.

The Picanto has been selected as one of the finalists in the annual car of the year competition and the only criticism I have encountered with those familiar with the car is the super light steering.

It is a strong car, though, with great looking lines and funky interior to match the outside.