The good news for you, Jenny, is that there isn’t really a mainstream car-maker anywhere in the world that doesn’t offer a range of SUVs in various sizes and price points. The SUV has literally taken over the world, so it comes down to finding a brand you like with a model that’s right for you at a price you can live with. You’ll be offered all sorts of options, too, including petrol or diesel engines, two or four-wheel-drive layouts and in many cases the offer of a hybrid drivetrain.

If you only do the occasional country drive, I’d stick with either a petrol engine or hybrid powertrain as a modern diesel engine doesn’t like a full-time life in the suburbs where the engine and exhaust system never get hot enough to purge the emissions filter (the DPF). Beyond that, however, you’re sure to find something that suits you to a tee. Lexus SUVs are built to a very high standard and the brand has lots of experience with hybrids, so I’d definitely short-list Lexus based on your question.

Switching from run-flats will help but could be quite costly. It would be best to get smaller wheels with higher-profile tyres, and definitely not anything with an aggressive 45-series profile.

It's disappointing when problems occur so soon after delivery, but they sometimes do. The issue is whether or not the carmaker fixes them, and in this case it seems that Mercedes-Benz has, which really is the end of the matter. I don't think there is anything in what has happened to you to justify a request for an extended warranty.