What Car?

[Mich the Tester]

Specially for you, Mich.

Better?

[MaryPoppins]

Better?

My local paper, that is.

[pacharan]

TOAD TAX

Love it. Perhaps that's what they should call the higher rate!

[Doggy Styles]

MP, I mentioned this in another thread. If you want a proper opinion on a second-hand car, rather than rely on our anecdotal evidence, subscribe to Which and look at their driver surveys.

They give detailed ratings on all aspects of each car, according to survey results from thousands of owners. That shows up the good points and problems to expect or look out for.

Which car

PS I don't work for them, I just find them very useful.

[lukemg]

Undergoing a similar search, 3-series saloon has more backseat space but my Golf could carry loads more. Are you sure a Focus isn't big enough - they are pretty damn big inside !
I never understood why so many people had CRV's, Rav4's, Kuga's, Tiguan's etc and it's simple really - they can't face getting an estate but need the space.
I am edging that way myself - nice seating position, panoramic roof, reasonable option if this winter is anything like last and something a bit different to drive for a bit.
Most drive similar to cars these days but are not quick (is the traffic ?), you get a bit penalised for MPG due to extra weight but a diesel should sort.
Not certain they are perfect for very long commute though.

[doodab]

As a father, and a frequent car hirer, I can recommend the following:

Mercedes C class estate
Audi A4 estate
VW Passat estate

I haven't tried the BMW 3 series but having seen them I'm sure they're equally suitable.

[d000hg]

this thread

He generated a 5-page thread with one little post, great trolling and he never had to mention her oral skills.

[gingerjedi]

Mazda 6 estate looks good.

Northampton Motors : Mazda 6

However, think what the neighbours will say if they see you in a cheap Jap car rather than a premium brand such as BMW, Merc or Audi. One must keep up standards or they'll think you are now unemployed.

I actually quite like the fact they think that, but deep down they know as well as I do that they are just superficial and gullible, they want to be like me but 'Heat' magazine won't let them.

[MaryPoppins]

I never understood why so many people had CRV's, Rav4's, Kuga's, Tiguan's etc and it's simple really - they can't face getting an estate but need the space.

Spot on.

Doggy - I am a subscriber of Which? and had a squiz last night, alongside everyone's valued input here. I also rate Parkers highly.

I have now discounted the Freelander, XC90 (bit on the large side) and anything BMW (price).

If I am being sensible, a one year old 2.2 TDCi Mondeo with all the bits is within my budget.

Not so sensible would be the Alfa.

Am going to drive both this weekend.

I feel a bit like Wilmslow.

[sasguru]

Mazda 6 estate looks good.

Northampton Motors : Mazda 6

However, think what the neighbours will say if they see you in a cheap Jap car rather than a premium brand such as BMW, Merc or Audi. One must keep up standards or they'll think you are now unemployed.

They'll probably say he's upgraded the Aygo. Wowser!
You see Dim, you'll never know this, but when your house is worth a million pounds, paid for, the car becomes irrelevant.