My parents have one of those. I personally quite like it, the rear doors are handy and the boot is ample. We took it for a 300 mile trip round trip earlier in the year and it was fine to drive. The issue is it's an acquired taste in the looks department and unfortunately my wife finds it ugly, which is a shame.

The issue is it's an acquired taste in the looks department and unfortunately my wife finds it ugly, which is a shame

A Berlingo might not be a Ferrari in looks but it looks way better than such cars as the Kia Soul.

At least the Berlingo does what it says on the tin without trying to be something its not.

That sounds like a job for an estate or an MPV to me. My feeling is that crossovers tend to be jacked-up hatchbacks and don't necessarily have as much internal space as you expect.

Whatever you go for though, I think it's essential that you get the kit together - child seat, pram, dog cage and some shopping bags filled with something light, like cushions - and take it with you when you view a prospective vehicle. Fit it all in, if you can, and then pretend to be your inlaws in the rear seats. Check also whether split rear seats give you more flexibility.

In your circumstances, practicality has to come first and looks second. What I've suggested is a good way of making sure you get the balance right.

That's some excellent advice. Thanks all.