If you have that budget, go for a dacia sandero 1.2 petrol. £5995 OTR. you'll get a base model for that, no wear and tear , and 3 years warranty. no tyres or moT's for 3 years, no repairs, just annual servicing. Can't beat it.

Have just persuaded some elderly neighbours to get one.

If you love your i30, you might want to consider an i20. £5k will get you into a 2014 model, it will ba a 1.2, 84bhp though, so should be enough power. Or the i20's sister car the kia rio, which at that budget is (arguably) a better looking car and possibly explains why it would be a 2013 for your £5k. Same 1.2 engine though.

Toyota yaris, your £5k will get you a 2012 1.33 (99bhp)

Honda jazz, this is the most spacious 'supermini' option and, like the yaris, is known for its reliabilty. Engine wise there is a choice of 1.2 (89bhp) or 1.4 (98bhp). £5k will get you into a 2012 or 2013 version.

Mazda 2 is a nice looking, nice driving and reliable car, possibly a bit less space than the other options, but not much in it (apart from the jazz). You will be looking at a 2012 or 2013 1.3, but be aware, there are 2 power outputs available on the 1.3, 75bhp or 85bhp. There is also a 101bhp 1.5, but you would have to go a couple of years older or higher miles.

As well as Isofix points you also need to consider the extra space needed for a car seat - with the framework of a car seat the child sits much further forward and higher so you need pleanty of rear legroom. In addition you'll need a bigger boot to carry all the "stuff" you'll need (pram/buggy, changing bag, bottles/food, high chair etc...)

If a small car is required then look at the Honda Jazz with the magic seats (some lower models don't have this) . The versatility of this car is amazing for a small car. Lots of room in the back seats, very big boot and very flexible magic rear seats. Look for a 1.4 though - much better on a motorway. They are also very reliable.

I recently found one for my sister who wanted a small car that was capable of carrying a double bass - after posting the requirements on this site, she loves it.

Alternatively, how about a petrol version of the Hyundai i30, or ix20?

Edited by Big John on 07/05/2017 at 20:02

Edited by SLO76 on 08/05/2017 at 00:57

For peace of mind with your wife and baby aboard whatever you get put the safety features first, Volvo would be the first make I'd look at. £5k should get something reasonable.