Need a new family car that will last 10 years

I’m looking for a used family estate that will keep for up to 10 years. It will need to be petrol for our short commute, but also need to accommodate 800 miles for our family trips to Cornwall. We have £12,000 to spend and are considering the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Honda CR-V and Volvo V70. We have also looked at the Ford Mondeo, but have reservations about long term reliability. Which car would you buy?

Asked on 1 September 2014 by db79

Answered by Honest John
If a current model car last for 10 years without major expensive repairs then you will be very lucky. I used to think the most likely to was a C Class diesel, but now they have sprung an oil pump problem. Mondeos are a lot better than average, and can be reliable for 7-8 years, but should be thought of as disposable.

A CR-V might do the distance, but the petrol models are underpowered, especially the automatics. Santa Fes and Sorentos are all diesel. Look them all up in www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar

Skoda Superbs don't come out very well. Volkswagens are shocking. Maybe a Mazda 6 petrol station wagon, but the bodies can start to go after 7-8 years.
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