If those are too small, try a Ford S-Max - by all accounts a lot better to drive than most MPVs. However for your budget you'd have to settle for a well-used one, but if you're doing only 5,000 miles a year don't be afraid of a high-mileage example.

Edited by Avant on 16/10/2012 at 01:13

Thanks all for your suggestions. I had been thinking of the Verso. I showed the OH the FR-V, but she was put off by the 3 seats across the front.

I also considered the Merc M class, as the huge running costs are balanced by a low second hand prices, but I think that the running costs will hurt too much over a few years. An XC90 Volvo with 7 seats could be an option though?

I found out today about the Grand C Max with the 1.0 ecoboost engine, so I'm wondering if I should use the money as deposit for a new car rather than buying an older one outright (as I have done in the past).

I had an XC90 and thought it a dog. Driven by lots of women who don't know any better, but coming from a decent car. it's awful. You dont need 4x4, so dont waste your money - buy an S-Max