I need a £6000-£7000 reliable estate car

I'm looking for an economical and inexpensive to run estate car for the family. Maximum budget is £7500. Preferably diesel but not a deal-breaker. Priorities are economy, safety and servicing costs. I know you're a fan of the Mondeo 2.0 TDCi but what are the other decent options? Also, how many miles would you expect out of the Mondeo before servicing would likely start to get expensive?

Asked on 8 December 2011 by SkyBarny

Answered by Honest John
The 2007 on Mondeo 2.0TDCI is best in class: most reliable, nicest to drive, with sensibly priced servicing. But, like any diesel, you'll be up for a new timing belt at 60k miles, DPF and a new DMF and clutch at 80k - 120k. Another way would be to go for something with a long warranty, like a KIA cee'd. All 1.6s have timing chains, but the long warranty still won't cover things like DMFs and DPFs.
Dear Honest John,

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