Which MPV?

I need to buy a used family car or MPV that seats 2 adults and 2 kids - 7 seats would be nice for odd occasions but a 500+ litre boot is a must for bikes, tents and general family clobber.

I do a very low annual mileage as I commute by train, 3-5000 miles.

I'd like to spend no more than £10,000, preferably nearer £5000.

It will probably be kept for years, so I don't imagine depreciation being a concern.

I like driving diesels and big petrols for the torque, but big-engined executive saloons or high tech turbo diesels are likely to cause problems I understand.

I've seen you recommend small petrol turbos, and am considering the VW Touran TSI, but they're quite expensive and even then don't appear to be problem free!

I'd like something reliable that won't cost too much to run in the way of servicing and road tax or repairs, fuel consumption is less important with my tiny mileage. Something with a bit of personality, a bit left-field or off the radar would be nice.

What esle should I consider aside from the Touran TSI?

Asked on 23 October 2012 by jeff1155

Answered by Honest John
VAG stuff is far from problem free anyway. Better a Toyota Verso. Might find a Ford S-Max 2.0i petrol within budget. That's a chain cam petrol. Not a characterful engine, but reliable, and S-Max are by far the best handling SUVs.
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