Hi guys.
Please help me choose a vehicle or at least warn me off making a big mistake. As a family of four (plus dog) we want a car that’ll fit the family for a weeks camping with all the giblets and extras. Pulling a caravan would also be a bonus and obviously I want maximum bike benefits.
The budget is about £2000. Although I could muster more it’d take a while and I’m currently bobbing around in an emergency Suzuki Swift so at 6.2″ I’m feeling a little cramped and very under-carred.
Reliability first and foremost. My average mileage is reasonably low, around 60 miles a week.
I have my eye on a few different vehicles.
1, Skoda Octavia estate. I’ve had one of these (SLXi) for the last 10 years and it’s been brilliantly fun and faultless.
2, Mercedes C class estate. I know nothing about these other than there’s loads of space and comfort and I’d opt for one with a tow bar.
Or 3, Ford Tranny, Renault Trafic or Vauxhall Vivaro crew cab van.
I prefer the driving position of a van and like the idea of a crew cab. The size of the Trafic is perfect but figure insurance will be higher as well as tax. Does anyone use one as a family runaround? I’ve heard injectors can be problematic but servicing is key. I would also consider upping the budget for something like this.
I love the style of the Merc, the extra space over the Octavia is also a bonus. They also seem pretty reasonably priced, is there a big fault with these, are they thirsty or are all repair bills eye watering?
Any experiences or other suggestions would be fantastic.
Thank you
Indecisive Mat