I'm retiring, although I have dropped my working hours down to part-time and will continue that probably for another three or four years as I enjoy it. (2 weeks on, two weeks off). I'm looking to buy one of two choices of car with a few options, so whichever I choose, it will likely need to be a factory order. I'm expecting it to last around 10-12 years which will, realistically, be the time to hang up my keys, providing I still have a pulse. Based on my previous experiences, and judging by how many old cars you see in daily use and still in good condition, Skoda (VW or Audi included) are probably the best "ordinary chap's" cars that will stay the course without trouble. With the lovely Skoda, I can mitigate any issues with a 2 year service plan and 5 year extended warranty.

The two cars I am looking at are the Scala Monte Carlo or the Octavia SE L (Hatchback or Estate as there's little price difference.) As I say, because it needs to be my last car, some of the options are affairs of the heart rather than being essential - I really, really want a Panoramic Sunroof (on the Octy, sadly, that's an option but the Scala's sunroof doesn't open - bummer!)

FIRST QUESTION: My present car, an Audi A3 (which I love to bits) ends it's lease at the end of November, so I'm wondering how long I have to make my mind up? Does anyone know how long the current factory order lead time is for Scalas and Octavias please (I'll add two weeks on for the summer shutdown)?

SECOND QUESTION: I'm a grandad with a wife and a medium sized dog. Most of my driving journeys these days are journeys of up to 60 miles with an occasional holiday up to 250 miles away. Sometimes we take two of our grandchildren away with us so two child seats would occupy the rear seat. The A3 has always been a bit small - a devil to clip the childrens' seat belts and our dog has to ride in the front footwell if we all go out together. With that in mind, if I had the Octavia Estate, our dog could ride in his basket in the luggage area.

Now, with the Scala I can afford every conceivable extra on the options list, some of which are pure "nice to have" bells and whistles rather than essentials. The Octy, I can afford the car I want with its sunroof but it's only the SE L version I can afford if I want my sunroof, or the Sportline if I forget all about fresh air and bright, airy cabin. So which would you choose, and why please?

Estate first and fore most , as for sun roof if you really like it go for the SE

Will you use all the toys in the sport ?

But you’ll use the sun roof and the hound will be pleased with the extra space as well

I would consider whether the Scala and Octavia are the right cars if mobility becomes an issue - e.g. bending and sitting down / getting back up?

You may want to consider whether a SUV style vehicle, or at least something slightly higher off the ground, may make getting in and out easier in the future if you plan for this to be your last car?