My vote would be for a Zafira (bacause I've got one). Ideal with 3 kids as you can fit a couple of their mates with the additional 2 seats up – stops them bickering – or 2 in the middle and 1 in the back – again to stop bickering.
I've got the 2.0 DTI ('03 plate diesel) huge amount of room for bikes and stuff with the back seat down, hits 90mph on motorways with no problem (not much left after that though), 40+ mpg, cheap servicing and parts interior hasn't fallen apart yet despite the best intentions of the kids.
One thing to be aware of – the spare sits under the rear of the car in an unlocked cage so depending upon where you live they do have a habit of getting nicked.
Not exactly a "driver's car" though.
bbA