£4k for a Family Wagon

[Marty Funkhouser]

Impending fatherhood means we need to get a largish car soon.

Budget is £4K, maybe £4.5K, needs to be cheap to run, very reliable and practical for a kid.

I am thinking a Passat estate maybe?

Any help gratefully received.

[Luke.]

Subaru Outback. Though a bit thirsty. Reliable though.

[morrellski]

octavia vrs estate or possibly a Volvo v50

[300bhp/ton]

Marty Funkhouser said:

Impending fatherhood means we need to get a largish car soon.

Budget is £4K, maybe £4.5K, needs to be cheap to run, very reliable and practical for a kid.

I am thinking a Passat estate maybe?

Any help gratefully received.

Not sure why you need a big car. However if you do then how about a 4x4 like a Cherokee or Discovery. The height makes them easier to lift a baby in and out and they have plenty of room. Also when the baby is a bit older they'll get to more 'out' due to the height too.

Failing that, e46 Tourin or Jag X-Type estate.

[andrew311]

On talking with mates who are new to fatherhood (I have no kids yet) a large car that their Mrs' can chuck loads of stuff in seems to be a God send. However the problem here is that the vast majority of women seem to be reluctant to drive 'larger cars'.

If it were me I'd be tempted to go for an estate, Skoda is a good shout but my choice would be 3 or 5 Series touring. I can see that being what I would go for as I also have dogs to transport and long distances to takle visiting family.