New car shortlist

[highlandsflyer]

Mitsubishi Grandis?

Very nice, but do they still make it?

I have had two S Max, any specific questions feel free.

I managed 50+ mpg on a blast from Maida Vale to New Mills at a steady 90 on the M1, then across the Peak on the windy road, with a full, full car, (some marble tiles as well as a mixing desk and tubs of grout.

 

[GT-Steve]

I know you say you've dismissed many, so just checking that a T5 transporter/caravelle isn't of use?

Plenty of room, and perfect in many ways for all your requests up there^^^^^

However, if I had to make a choice off your list, I'd go for something along the Galaxy/sharan/alhambra route. People carriers are so versatile...

 

[azaro]

Would definitely agree, if you can get over badge issue (for some), Skoda Superb estate or Yeti.
VFM probably unrivalled, and they're effectively VW's anyway.

A mate at work has an XC60 but he's a big Volvo fan. Personally I think it's dull to look at and short on bike friendly room. Lots of kit on it but he's gone for the Lux SE premium (I think!), so pricey

 

[MikeD]

No experience of any of those, but sliding doors are BRILLIANT for lifting kids in and out through. No worries about parking somewhere that lets you open regular doors wide enough and a nice big aperture. Tall cars also great for not destroying your back.

(Have a Peugeot Partner, which I suspect is little utilitarian for your tastes )

 

[Augustus]

No experience of any of those, but sliding doors are BRILLIANT(Have a Peugeot Partner )

Seconded and seconded and seconded.

 

[s_zigmond]

The only cars I would add would be the Skoda octavia and superb,

Definately test drive an insignia! Though it may be worth you looking at a second hand vectra estate due to the size of the boot!

 

[REKIBorter]

Through a slow but very thorough elimination procedure we have some winners and a few losers.

The losers:
Vauxhall Insignia - very dark rear passenger compartment, not enough room for rear passengers, small rear door.

VW Touran - second row of seats don't fold flat.

Maxda 5 - too expensive for what you get.

Renault Grand Scenic - plastic plastic plastic.

Ford Mondeo estate - don't float my boat anymore.

Ford Grand C-Max - Ugly, too small.

Peugeot 5008 - plastic, flimsy, feels cheap.

The winners:
Ford Galaxy - very good equipment as standard, clever seats, shame it doesn't have a sliding door.

VW Sharan - the best allrounder so far

Ford S-Max - best drive of the lot, clever seats.

More tests are expected soon ...

 

[highlandsflyer]

I hate the central speedo in the Renault as well. Really silly design.

So VW have got the nod?

Nice.