Mpv Or Estate Car For 2+3 Family?

July 28, 2006

Hi

This is my first post to this forum but I've been reading the site for ages and it's great. :thumbsup: Not owned a Toyota yet but my Dad's got a 1991 Camry that's on 150000 and fresh as a daisy.

We're thinking of upgrading the family saloon (406 HDI) for something with a bit more space. It's just about big enough for the three children and all the paraphernalia, but something bigger would be nice. I like the Avensis (particularly the estate) but we're toying with the idea of an MPV. We like the Previa but worry that a) it would be a bit pricey to buy and run and B) it would be a lot bigger than we would actually need 90% of the time. The Toyota Verso looks like it might be a good compromise but I'm a bit confused as I've heard of Corolla Verso, Avensis Verso - are there different ones? We might actually keep the 406 as it's reliable and well-maintained.

Whatever we go for it will have to be a diesel - the fuel economy is important. We are currently doing about 12000 miles a year and I don't change cars often (every 5-10 years). I don't really care about it being a bit on the slow side - I'm past all that now and comfort and reliability are much more important (yawn!).

Any advice would be much appreciated, and if anyone has any tips for good websites/dealers/independents that would also be most welcome.

Thanks,

July 28, 2006

I can only help with one view on the Previa - we've use ours for 2 adults + 3 kids and it's great. We've had it for 4 years so far (I also keep cars ages), 02 model, and absolutely no problems of any sort. It's very flexible, double sliding doors excellent, and the size is handy for ensuring everyone has their own space (less arguements)!

I've got the petrol so can't comment on the diesel except to say that it looks better (wife wanted petrol since it's mostly her car).

Running costs seem fair, insurance £350 fully comp, servicing £250 main dealer, tyres (front) 15k, (rear) 44k, £75 each (Michelin premacy, less expensive available) consumption 27mpg.

July 29, 2006

I can only help with one view on the Previa - we've use ours for 2 adults + 3 kids and it's great. We've had it for 4 years so far (I also keep cars ages), 02 model, and absolutely no problems of any sort. It's very flexible, double sliding doors excellent, and the size is handy for ensuring everyone has their own space (less arguements)!
I've got the petrol so can't comment on the diesel except to say that it looks better (wife wanted petrol since it's mostly her car).
Running costs seem fair, insurance £350 fully comp, servicing £250 main dealer, tyres (front) 15k, (rear) 44k, £75 each (Michelin premacy, less expensive available) consumption 27mpg.

Thanks Tardis, that's very useful. Running costs don't seem too bad. I guess the diesel would give about 10 mpg more or so. Did you source your Previa from a Toyota dealer?

July 29, 2006

No I bought mine at this car supermarket. It was an import from Holland, £4k off Uk list, same spec, delivery mileage, second on log book. The diesel was another £1k cheaper when I bought mine :crybaby: but she still wanted petrol.