I need a seven-seat MPV to replace my Merc estate...
Hi, my 1997 E 230 Mercedes estate just failed its NCT and I've decided not to put any more money into keeping it going. I am looking for a second hand, large seven-seater (for three kids and two dogs), with a budget of approx €6,000.
I want space, practicality, reliability and preferably low running costs. My preference would be Ford Galaxy (on reputation), but mileage in my price range tends to be high. French brands (Citroen C8, Peugeot 807 and Renault Espace) seem to review poorly. Hyundai Trajet maybe? SEAT Alhambra? Any others I should be considering? All advice gratefully received.
Richard, Dublin
Richard Butler (Dublin)Feb 2014 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi Richard,
The Alhambra would be my choice here. A budget of €6,000 won't get you the current model, but it should find you an old one and they're still good. SEAT's reliability is pretty solid and you should be able to find one at a lower mileage than an equivalently priced (and mechanically identical) Ford Galaxy.
It would be worth keeping an eye out for a Ford S-Max too, though €6,000 is the very, very bottom end for S-Max prices, but keep your eyes peeled and haggle hard and you might just land a nice one.
And, as I always advise anyone looking for a seven-seater, there's always the option of a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate with extra seats in the boot...
Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser@neilmbriscoe