A comfortable estate car for £2500

Time to replace my ageing Mk1 Ford Galaxy 2.3 auto. It's been pretty good but soulless and it eats drivetrain components and tyres.

I don't really like the 'sitting on it' feel of MPVs and the ride isn't great. It's appetite for fuel is scary and the boot with seats out is huge.

I need a big boot space and easy loading for furniture, washing machines etc. I like sunroofs but that cuts down choice a lot.

So I am looking for a big estate - I do about 15,000 mostly motorway miles a year. Budget is probably upto £2500 for a diesel, less for a petrol.

Previous Xantia and BX give me an irrational desire to go for a C5 2.0 diesel estate but have heard conflicting reports including lots of horror stories.

Omega 2.2 diesel? Comfy, safe and tough. No cambelts to pay for. No dual mass flywheels etc.

Given your admiration for Ford I am guessing you'll suggest a Mondeo. Had a Mondeo Mk2 and it was solid, but nothing like as comfy and good to drive as a Xantia.

At this price point is service history and overall condition more important than the make of car?

Asked on 4 January 2012 by PD786

Answered by Honest John

You should get a Mondeo III 2.0TDCI for your budget. No DPF to worry about and DMFs can last up to 200,000 miles. 16" wheels with deep profile tyres are more comfortable than 18s with low profiles. But make sure you check the car out against this: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/ford/mondeo-iii-2000...d

Tags: buying used cars large cars

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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