Might be a good excercise to do some sums first. How many more miles a year will you be doing? The real difference in fuel cost between a 40mpg petrol and a 50mpg diesel is 3p a mile at the moment. ( 16p v 13p )...Is it likely to be worth it given that it may well cost something to change the car which sounds like it's otherwise suited to your needs?

Alby makes a good point. It's worth doing some fag-packet calculations on mileage, estimated fuel costs and so on. Even an extra 200 miles per week may only cost an extra £3 - £4 in fuel.

You have to be realistic about diesel fuel economy too -- in the real world, most diesels will give 45 - 50mpg, it has to be an exceptional car or a very careful driver that will give much better than 50mpg

hello thanks for the replys

I take the above points seriously regarding mpg and its well noted maybe more calculations are required.

If i wanted swap in the C-Max more another petrol variant what would be the best bet a Mondeo or similar saloon,,,,,,,,, just want to get away from MPV cars .

Any suggestions welcomed

or something Japanese and petrol-powered like a Toyota Avensis or Mazda 6.

Both good cars - but if mpg is important the Mazda 6 won't give you more than 30 mpg (I've had one) although they just don't go wrong - the Avensis is probably just as reliable (find one with good provenance - not a minicab!) but the lean burn engine technology gives nearer 40 mpg if you drive it sensibly.

J