The requirements are simple. It has to be able to:

- sit four in comfort, sit five if needed;
- have frugal fuel consumption (at least below 11L/100km on a combined cycle);
- have enough power (adequate will do, we're not looking for a sports car);
- have enough style and image.

We feel having two large cars (A8 and QP) is a waste so we're selling off the A8 for a smaller car. Also the A8 is drinking too much fuel for a daily driver.

Right now we're playing with ideas all the way from the CL to the 5er to even an X5. We're actually quite clueless as to what we should get now. The closest we've come to a conclusion to is a 520d or a C220CDI. We need more input from you guys who know the marketplace inside out to recommend more.

Thanks in advance.

We test drove a 520i today and it was quite impressive for a four pot. But we don't want the petrol, we want a diesel, the 520d and right now the dealer is reluctant to bring one in, because the government only recently reduced taxes on diesel cars. In the whole of Singapore only 6 people drive diesel cars, so maintenance would be an issue unless they can garner enough demand. For Mercedes however, the E220 CDI cabs are all around so getting a diesel Benz shouldn't be a problem. However, the C is a bit too small and the E is ageing. Audi's market is too small in Singapore to offer any diesels.

Is this a dilemma or what.

The E-class is a good car and since it will be replaced within a year you can probably get a very good deal on a used one.

What about a Lexus or perhaps Honda Legend (or whatever its called)

There're some good cars that could fulfill your stated requirements however I don't know much about its availability in Singapore.

• BMW X3 2.0D or 3.0D
• BMW X5 3.0D
• Jaguar XF 2.7D
• Volvo S80 D5
• Lexus GS450h
• Lexus RX400h
• Mercedes-Benz ML 280 or 320 CDI
• Mercedes-Benz GLK CDI (not out yet)

Another option would be the cars mentioned below but you have to sacrifice one seat:

• Mercedes-Benz CLS 320 CDI
• Volkswagen Passat Coupe TDI

hi i own a c220 cdi and all i can say is it a awesome little car economical and spacious easy for four adults to be seated and for the odd trip 5 adults

its built solidly and its got good power and awesom torque

id you have any queistions on the c220cdi feel free to ask me

Sell the QP and keep the A8.

In the long term the A8 will prove much more reliable and well build.

Well I think, a car like the BMW 5-series or Mercedes E-Class would be perfect. Maybe a Jaguar XF would be great!! Your family owns a lot of "special" cars. I think, it would be a nice addition to the Maserati.

Phaeton?

Lol, but I'm in love with that car

Lol, his family already had a Phaeton V6!! But nice idea, though!!