Editor’s top small MPV picks this month:
2000 Citroën Xsara
Losing another 13% on average, the 9 year old Xsara Picassos are around £2,000 as they approach the 100,000 mile mark. While you can always pick up discount nearly new and pre-reg examples for less, the rate card for this car when new was over £10,000, so this is a bargain for families who only do local journeys and low mileage.
2005 Mazda 5
A rare and under-rated MPV, 4 year old examples with average mileages of under 40,000 are effectively half price compared to a new car and will lose you far less money over the next two years.
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James Ruppert’s Bangers & Bargains
Large MPV: Ford Galaxy
This is Britain’s favourite people mover by some sales margin and that is no surprise given how handsome and practical it is, plus the sheer number of Galaxys in circulation means that it is also the best value buy. The Galaxy is a big vehicle, but it certainly does not feel like one on the move. This is as easy to drive as a Mondeo with a responsive power steering system and light gearchange. The firm suspension means it always feels stable when cornering with little body roll and on long journeys it is never less than relaxing.
The ride is firm, especially around town but not uncomfortable and it comes into its own on longer motorway hauls. The seven-seat option makes sense and any of the rear five seats can be removed. As with any MPV though a full complement of passengers limits luggage space. The 2.0 litre is underpowered and struggles with that big body, but the 2.3 is a good compromise getting to 60mph in 10 seconds and with a 120mph top speed with reasonable 28mpg economy. The diesels provide over 40mpg and are adequate rather than exciting performers. Go for the 110 TD if you can. Early five seaters can be very cheap and have more real world family baggage.