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I have about €10,000 to spend on my next car and I'm considering a hybrid or plug-in hybrid



Hyundai i40.

Hyundai i40.

Hyundai i40.


I drive a 161 Hyundai i40 diesel, bought a year ago, demo model, 33,000km. I do 20,000km average yearly. In my late 50s, I travel 50km to work daily (round trip). I will retire in the next 3/4 years. I have about €10,000 to spend on my next car, which I will change mid-2018. I am considering hybrid or plug-in hybrid. I feel I am not doing enough mileage for diesel. I don't need a big car but don't particularly like small ones. I feel I want a change. Please don't tell me to keep the car I have as I suspect this is what you are thinking (my husband is) but when I retire I will not have a choice.

Aidan: If you won't have a choice but to keep your car when you retire, then why would you change now when you drive something still fresh and under warranty? Instead, change it just as you are retiring and buy something that will fulfil your future needs. You might not like to hear it but if by retiring it means that your mileage drops dramatically, then whatever car you drive now won't serve your needs. I understand you are cleverly trying to future-proof your car needs but I think you have jumped the gun a bit. You need a diesel for the next few years and that is precisely what you have. I think you are looking for a solution to a problem that doesn't exist. At least not yet. Drive the i40 and buy a hybrid when you retire.

Eddie: Something tells me, dear reader, you have your mind made up. So buy either a Toyota Auris petrol hybrid or a Toyota Prius. I still think Aidan's advice is best but you do what suits you.

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