I have managed to persuade my partner that her Y reg astra estate should be replaced (I really hate driving it)

Only have about 2.5k to play with, ideally like around a 51 to 52 plate with 80k on the clock.

Only real requirement is on some days we need 3 kids seats in the back, her astra and my a4 just do that. Oh and a hatchback for the two dogs! Oh and around 40 mpg combined

Top of my list so far is a seat leon, think the polo and fabia are just to small.
Any good tips?

this is ideal, you just need to make it a BEC...

or I paid £1600 for a 50k mint 6 year old Almera with full Nissan service history for missy just a few weeks ago. Tbh its a real cracking little car with a big boot. Off to pick up a cortina rear axle with it tonight and chuck it in the boot as there's plenty of room inside



[Edited on 17/8/09 by Mr Whippy]

love it.....
now for the real suggestions

My Leon is for sale... might be a little stretch for the budget though!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170373088677


IMHO.. the 6N2 shape polo has a LOT of space in it...

I can get 2 bicycles, 2 tents, camping gear for 2 people, plus 2 people comfortably in the car..

Or 5 adults with reasonable space...


They do a TDI polo in that shape...you should be able to get one for around your budget...

I always suggest Alfa Romeos cos I like them

So here goes - How about an Alfa Romeo 147?

You can get a decent Nissan Primera (the p11-144 model, 2001 ish). HUGE boot and very reliable. I bought one as I can fit my whole drum kit in the boot without having to put the rear seats down. Good drive too, I love it :-D

Here's Mine:

http://www.locostbuilders.co.uk/upload/04072009097.jpg

Si.

Plenty of nice jags well withing that budget

Not with hatches and the MPG he wants.