First family car - what's best?

We are expecting our first child in September and are looking to buy our first car before then.

We are happy with a second hand model, a couple of years old, manual, petrol or diesel (we live in London but have parents in Peterborough and Essex, so will be doing a mixture of short and medium journeys).

We have a a budget of up to £15k (but do not have to spend all of this!).

We have looked at an Audi A3 Sportback, and liked that, but I wondered what else you would recommend as a good medium to long-term purchase/investment? We are not fans of Volkswagens as a rule.

Asked on 17 April 2012 by JamesH

Answered by Honest John
Think of your backs, lifting the child in and out of firstly the front seat, then the back seat of, whatever you buy. The more upright the car, the better your back will be. So, think Hyundai ix20, KIA Venga.
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
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