Our main family car is currently a Range Rover with a bench seat fitted in the boot which can carry 2 of our 4 children. However due to the combined fact of our 10 year old getting too big and the announcement of a 5th addition to the family we find ourselves in need of a bigger vehicle.
We are determined to steer clear of the people carrier route. Investigation of 7 seaters such as the Audi Q7 and Mercedes GL find them lacking in boot space - we realistically have to have enough space to carry kit for a weekend away - as well as a touch pricey.
The only other alternative seems to be a Mercedes Vito Sport but I can't get over the fact that even with all the extras it still looks like a van. Is this the best we can hope for -are there no stylish alternatives for a large family?!
Our budget is anything from approx.£ 50k for something fabulous (if such a car exists) down to £25k for a "needs must".
Nicola Grant, UK
Answer
Well hello Nicola,
You have been busy, haven’t you?
I agree with all your research, the Vito is pretty much a van.
A Land Rover Discovery or Volvo XC90 are probably best for you as there is lots of choice on the used market going back years. Allowing you to choose how much of your budget to use up.
But the only way I think you will be able to get a weekend’s worth of family gubbins in any vehicle - short of a mini-bus - is with a roof box.
Or a servant to follow on with the bags like Jeeves used to do for Bertie Worcester.
Matt
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