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Hi Joe,

There is a new model Qashqai on the way but it's about a year away yet. Normally that would be the signal for decent discounts on the current model, but seeing as it's still hugely popular, that seems unlikely for the moment. 

That said, the Qashqai is still a fine car, but you should also consider a Skoda Yeti (due for an update before the end of the year but the current car is still utterly brilliant) and both the Peugeot 3008 and MINI Countryman (a car I have a peculiar fondness for) are well worth a look too. 

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Hi Dawn,

The problem here is that you need space for three child seats across the back, and it's getting harder and harder to find a car that can accommodate that. The Qashqai is a fab car, no doubt, but yes, unless it's the 1.5 dCi diesel model you're talking about, they can indeed be hard on petrol. Besides, it will also fall down on the three-across-the-back test. The Xsara Picasso should be able to manage three across though, so is the best suggestion out of the ones you've been looking at, but here's another possibility: if you're looking for space on a budget, try going for a van-based MPV such as a Citroen Berlingo or Renault Kangoo. They're surprisingly nice to drive, have masses of space both in the back and boot, and both can be found with 1.4-litre petrol or 1.5- or 1.6-litre diesel engines so tax and, generally, fuel economy shouldn't be an issue. Also, being van-based, they're often more reliable and ruggedly built than their car cousins.

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Hi Paula,

Yes, very, very reliable. But also, I'm afraid, very, very boring. Still, sometimes it's the dullest cars that give the fewest problems...

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Hi Rory,

Normally, I would say the Volvo hands down. But, at that kind of budget, you're looking at an older car and the XC90 is a complex premium car, which needs looking after. Tread carefully at that price level, which is why I'm suggesting you should go for the Nissan. It can't hold a candle to the Volvo for cabin ambience, comfort or on-road dynamics but it's simpler and more rugged, and therefore less likely to give any problems.

Let us know how you get on

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Hi Martin,

Shame you have to get rid of the Beemer. What a fab car, especially the Touring. I reckon you should be looking at a value of around €19-€20k for it, which would make the world your oyster when it comes to trading in for a Yeti or Qashqai. A 2010 model for either should be easy to find, and you may even sneak into a 2011 car. Of the two, I'd go for the Yeti. I find them much more comfortable, and more spacious than a Qashqai, and better to drive too. Go for the 1.6 TDI if you can track one down - the 2.0 TDI is a bit unnecessary.

Let us know how you get on

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Hi Andrew,

Yes, the new Qashqai has just arrived and is already on sale, and the X-Trail will be following on very shortly (in fact by the time you read this you should be able to order one). Note that it's more an update than an all-new car, though. 

Here are our reviews on both:

Nissan Qashqai review

Nissan X-Trail review

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Hi Roy,

Have you considered the new Peugeot 5008? It’s basically a bigger version of the 3008, comes with seven seats as standard and prices start from €28k. Get one with the brilliant little 1.2 turbo petrol engine and you won’t go wrong. Read our review of that car here.

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Hi Philippa,

Yes, but it's incredibly boring!

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Hi Glen,

Qashqais are pretty well built, as are all Nissans, by and large. Just watch for soggy rear suspension (the dampers and bushes can wear out fast sometimes) and signs of abuse or neglect (they are designed for families after all) in the cabin.

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Hi Caroline,

The Qashqai should be pretty reliable; Nissans tend to be, although we have noted that it's a model that's been through quite a few recalls, so check with Nissan to make sure that the one you're looking at has had all its work done. Other than that the only weak spot seems to be the rear suspension and bushes, which can be prone to wear. Listen for clonking noises from the back or wallowy handling.