Tricky - that's a really tight budget.
DT_Xtremez_26: and so you force me to go french
DT_Xtremez_34:
First off, the MPV: for your budget you can get a Vauxhall Zafira (last gen) but since you suffer diesel prejudice I would have to recommend the 1.8 petrol (avoid the 1.6 as it will be hopelessly asthmatic fully laden). You can get one within budget but you will be looking at a high-mileage example. However, 7 seats (potentially) is not to be sniffed at.
Worth a look would be (can't believe I'm about to say this) a Renault megane Scenic - but it will be a 1.4 petrol so will likely to be a bit gutless. However, this is the stylish choice and since the newer Megane Scenic scores maximum points in the NCAP crash safety tests, definately the choice to keep your brood safe.
And finally you can pick up a 54 plate Citroen Berlingo 1.4 or 1.6 petrol for under 6k - these are cheeky little cars and great for karting around kids + associated kit. They are known for being actually quite a decent drive too and quite good fun to hustle along - however, most of the plaudits go to the DIESEL versions...
and now the hatchback. For 2K you can pick up fairly decent Ford Fiestas (last gen) and Nissan Micras (last gen) circa 00 (W or X plate). Both these will cause you no trouble, be cheap as chips to run/maintain and for your money you'll get a respectable level of kit. My preference would be for the Micra.
Whadya reckon? could these be worth a test-drive?
and if you feel really flush, for your family MPV, since it's to replace a meriva - have a go in a
Nissan Note. Used examples are rare (new model) but you can pick up a 6 month old 1.4 petrol (top choice) in SE trim (again, top choice - air-con, CD, alloys, rear seat back trays and flexible boot floor system) for under 10k - and that will be ex demonstrator. They have bags of space in the rear and are great to drive. Mrs BEngO has had hers for a couple of months now and it's brilliant. can't fault it and it's made in Britain
DT_Xtremez_28: .