Hyundai ix35 Problems

The Mazda CX-5 is my top pick and I also like the Hyundai ix35 for value, the Honda CR-V as a city runabout, and the base-model Subaru Forester as a family car.

No, we haven't had any more reports of this issue, but it sounds serious. Hyundai has fixed your car before, so I would return it as you are doing and press on them the danger of the situation you found yourself in when it happened. Lemon laws where you could get a replacement car don't exist in Australia, and the consumer laws we do have are pathetic and few people have the fortitude it takes to pursue it to the end.

The CX-5 is the better vehicle, but the Hyundai is likely to be cheaper and with much longer to run on the factory warranty.

The Hyundai is a clear winner for me and gets The Tick. I get lots of emails from unhappy Jeep owners.

The 2.5-litre petrol engine in the CX-5 will give you the zip you want. If you need oomph for towing, go for the diesel.

That Tiguan is getting old and a customer complaint is not unusual for Volkswagen. If he wants the best car then, it's the CX-5 but the Hyundai ix35 and Kia Sportage also get The Tick and are the value champions.

For your main requirements, I'd avoid all four of your shortlisted models and go for a Subaru Forester or Outback. They are more car-like but will still handle the rough roads.

The Forester has been a top choice but these days I would rate it behind the Hyundai ix35 and Kia Sportage for class and value. And the best car in that class is now the Mazda CX-5.

 You have no chance of getting a replacement car and there is no reason to think that your car will not be fixed when the repairs are done.