Hi John,

There's a lot to go through there! 

First up, fuel type. Diesel cars have traditionally held their values better for sure, especially in larger and executive models such as the ones on your shortlist. However, we expect that to change rapidly now that the government is adamant that 2030 will be the cut-off for sales of purely petrol or purely diesel cars. So, if a plug-in hybrid suits your mileage, and you are willing to plug it in regularly to make the most of the electric part of the system, then that's certainly worth considering. Though of course you're likely to need/want to install a home charger to go with it. If you're not ready for all that, a good modern petrol car might make a great alternative. They're refreshingly quiet and responsive for anyone used to diesel power, and their economy and efficiency has come on leaps and bounds. Generalising, we'd expect the petrol models to come with less maintenance, too. So in short, we'd advise you to go petrol or plug-in hybrid petrol.

Now, with a maximum budget of €50,000, you can just about squeeze into a BMW 330e Touring if you want to go hybrid, or the 320i Touring. Both are great. The C-Class Estate is comparable, but it's in its run-out year before a replacement later in 2021 so you may struggle to get one. The only plug-in hybrid V60 offered costs nearly €60,000, but your budget would get you a V60 B4, which is powered by a petrol engine. Gorgeous car.

The Skoda Kodiaq stands out from the others in that it's way more spacious and family oriented. For €50,000 you could get into a well-specified Sportline version powered by the 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine. Personally, I'd only go for that if I particularly loved the design and interior, or needed all the extra space for family etc. 

Come back to us if you want more assistance of course.