Need two used family cars - what should we get?

We are returning to the UK after a few years away and need to "re-car" ourselves. We are looking at spending up to £6000 on a medium-sized family hatchback and £12,000 on a large estate or SUV. What should we get and what should we be aware of when buying?

Asked on 1 November 2016 by Bob Laverty

Answered by Honest John
Medium car: a Honda Civic 1.8iVTEC, KIA cee'd 6 speed or Hyundai i30 6 speed petrol. Large estate probably a Mondeo. Best to avoid diesel, but Mondeo 2.0TDCIs have not been much trouble. All problem areas under 'Good and Bad' in www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/
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