Looking for a decent family car

run_Forrest_run · 08-08-2005 1:41pm #1

I am looking to buy a family car (baby on the way). I want something with a decent size boot and not more than 1.6. I don't give a hoot about performance (within reason), don't care about body kits blah blah etc..Simply solid with decent space inside...I have 8000 to spend.

Any suggestions on car/manufacturer?

Thanks.

GoneShootin · 08-08-2005 2:24pm

Chance a Fabia Estate/Saloon model. Older Octavia can be hard to find with low milage but are a solid car. 8k may be a bit tight when it comes to more recent family cars

bazz26 · 08-08-2005 2:29pm

loyatemu · 08-08-2005 2:40pm

we've got a renault megane saloon and have been very happy with it - plenty of boot space for pushchairs etc.

ds20prefecture · 08-08-2005 2:41pm

I can personally recommend the Škoda Octavia and the Alfa 156.

The Škoda is probably the best fit for your needs, go for GLX or "Ambiente" trim.

The 156 tends to be better value due to their poor (and undeserved) reliability reputation.

The Škoda in estate form has a vast boot - no problem with buggies, cots, luggage and the family pet, all at one time. The 156 saloon has a smallish boot opening so have a look for the Sportwagon (the estate model). The boot is no bigger than the saloon, but it's more accessible and the car is frankly gorgeous.

You'll average 30mpg around town, 35 on the open road in the Škoda. Insurance & petrol costs are likely to be slightly higher on the Alfa.

All of these should be haggle-able to under 8k.
Alfa
Škoda

If you can stretch to a 1.9 diesel, the Škoda is much better in this form.

run_Forrest_run · 08-08-2005 3:05pm

Thanks for your feedback folks. There seems to be a good amount of cars out there for 8000...pity they all seem to be around Dublin! I would like to steer clear of dealers also...if I can get a private sale I'd go with it (assuming it's has a clean bill of health).

bazz26 · 08-08-2005 3:08pm

Check out http://www.carzone.ie or http://www.cbg.ie

There are lots of cars for sale outside of Dublin too, these were just examples of what you can buy for €8k.

Looking for a decent family car

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