Can you recommend a car with 4-5 seats and plenty of space for use as a laundry delivery vehicle?

I'm setting up an ironing service and want a vehicle that is economical to run and reliable. I will be picking up baskets and delivering ironed laundry. Ideally the vehicle should have space to allow me to hang up the ironing in the back, but also four/five seats so I can easily convert it back into a car if I have passengers. My budget is around £2000. I currently have a Toyota Avensis with which I have been very happy, but it does not have sufficient height to hang the ironing. Can you help?

Asked on 28 May 2010 by Daisefair

Answered by David Ross
It sounds like an MPV might be useful if you're after extra height but still need four or five useful seats. It's best to avoid anything imported (you'll probably see plenty of odd Toyota Estima or Lucida models about) as these can be expensive to repair. The SEAT Alhambra could be a good choice and there are plenty around to choose from at up to £2000. The 1.9 TDI is the best choice for economy, but avoid the 2.0 petrol as it's thirsty. The 1.8 T is better if you want a petrol. The SEAT Alhambra is the sister car to the Ford Galaxy and Volkswagen Sharan, but the SEAT tends to be better value for money.
Similar questions
I drive around 20,000 miles per year on business. I currently have a leased Mercedes-Benz SLK (a bad move for long distances) that goes back in March. I want to buy something reliable, stylish, maybe an...
I retire at the end of November and will be handing back my company car – a 2008 Audi A3 Sportback 2.0TDi Automatic. This is my third A3; the previous was a 2.0FSi Auto. I estimate I will do about 10,000...
I used to drive a SEAT Alhambra 1.9 TDI SE until a lorry went into the back of me recently. I'm now looking to replace my vehicle, and out of the vehicles listed below I wondered which you would recommend...
Related models
Good to drive and comfortable. Versatile with foldaway seats. Generally good quality. Diesel automatic option. Plenty of room in all back seats.
True seven-seater with more cheerful trim than its VW Sharan and Ford Galaxy equivalents. Good car-like drive.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer