Which MPV with sliding doors for carrying children?

My daughter is looking to change her Mercedes-Benz for a new car with side sliding doors, big enough for two children. The Mercedes-Benz Viano looks too much like a minibus so her shortlist is Chrysler Voyager, Ford Galaxy, SEAT Alhambra, Renault Grande Scenic, and Vauxhall Zafira. Do you have any comments and advice please?

Asked on 22 September 2012 by PW, Knutsford

Answered by Honest John

The excellent Galaxy, the Zafira Tourer and the Grand Scenic do not have sliding side doors and the Grand Voyager is a bit of a lump. The Mazda 5 does, and the best spec of that is the 1.6d TS2 which has 205/55 R16 tyres. The Sport version has lower profile, less comfortable tyres. The Alhambra and Mazda 5 do have sliding doors. Every single one is video tested at www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/

Tags: mpvs children buying a new car

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Related models

Ford Galaxy (2006 - 2015)

Good to drive and comfortable. Versatile with foldaway seats. Generally good quality. Diesel automatic option. Plenty of room in all back seats.

Renault Scenic (2009 - 2016)

Comfortable for seven. Great chain-cam 1.4 TCe 130 engine. Brilliant new chain-cam 1.6 dCi 130 diesel engine from mid 2011.

SEAT Alhambra (2010 - 2020)

Proper seven-seat practicality which is more than you can say for most SUVs, practical and spacious even with all seven seats occupied, sliding rear doors are a real boon especially the electric versions.