Disabled driver that wants to trade up in Feb...
I am on the Disabled Drivers Scheme and want to trade up next Feb '21. I currently drive a Mercedes A-Class hatchback that has been valued at €22,500. I would like to change to something a bit more robust as most of my driving is on country roads. I carry backseat passengers very occasionally and would like a decent sized boot. Automatic gearbox and reversing camera are neccessary. Also something stylish. I have €4,500 to spend with my current car and the DDS allowance. Don't mind petrol or diesel.
Thank you,
Grainne D, Cork
Grainne Dennehy (Rosscarbery)Oct 2020 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Grainne,
As previously noted, you’ll need to have a current and valid primary medical cert as new certs are not being issued right now thanks to a Supreme Court decision that has thrown the rebate scheme for disabled drivers into limbo. However, if you already have the cert, you should still be able to avail of the VRT and VAT rebates, so that should be fine (although it’s worth checking ahead of time — it’s a bit of a moving target at the moment).
I think that a Skoda Kamiq might be the right sort of car for you. Not much bigger on the outside than the Merc, but more roomy within, and with the necessary automatic gearbox and reversing camera on the options list. Get it with the sweet little 1.0-litre petrol engine and you’re onto a winner. It’ll be well within your budget, too.
Read our Skoda Kamiq reviews here
Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor@neilmbriscoe