Which SUV for a school run?

I'm looking for a second-hand SUV for my wife to do the school run in. I don't want to spend a fortune but want something comfortable that is not thirsty. What do you think about a 2005 Volvo XC 90 2.5T automatic. I think it is thirsty? What secondhand SUV would you recommend?

Asked on 23 February 2013 by WH, via email

Answered by Honest John

On a 'school run' of less than 10 miles you can expect an XC90 2.5T auto to do about 20mpg. To get significantly better mpg, avoid automatic and avoid petrol. And also avoid any later diesels with diesel particulate filters. A Honda CR-V 2.2iCTDI will do about 42mpg on a long run, maybe 30 - 35 on school runs, and does not have a DPF. The later 2.2iDTEC does have a DPF.

Tags: automatics short journeys dpf diesels suvs

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