Ask an expert

Hi there we are looking at buying a Hyundai iMax but don't know if we would be better with the petrol or diesel version.
This would be our family car so would be used for lots of small trips - school run, Playcentre, after school activities and I doubt we would be doing 30,000km per year.
We have been told that the petrol version is actually very economical for such a big vehicle but have also now been told that this is only in "ideal conditions" and in our situation, even though our annual mileage wouldn't hit that usual diesel break even point and taking in to account the RUC we are still better with a diesel.
I am driving an AWD Mazda MPV petrol at the moment and do find it chews through the fuel far more so than the old diesel MPV that I had but I am also only having it serviced half as often but that doesn't help me make a decision re the iMax!
Any advice would be appreciated.
Maria

You will do less fuel station stops with the diesel version as the petrol model is thirsty. The diesels are rated to do around 9L/100km whereas the 2.4L petrol is said to drink fuel at a rate of 11.4L/100km. The diesel auto offers impressive performance compared to the petrol version and for such a large vehicle loaded with luggage and passengers the diesel is the preferred choice. For towing purposes the diesel is the desirable option for its superior torque.

Thanks for that.