Best cheap BIG car in the UK for a family?

Question

This may seems like a simple question but I cant seem to get an answer by trawling through the web.

We are a family of 5 with a possibility of a new one on the way. We also intend to buy a 'BIG' dog so we need a 6/7 seater with plenty of boot space..

Simple ? NO !

First problem.. I want to spend less than £5k
Second problem..The chancellor !.. I really wanted a 95/96 Discovery 300Tdi but I'm worried Gordon is going to make my life hell very soon !

Can you help me by making any suggestions.

Many thanks

Answer 1

Definately a Toyota Hilux Surf. My dad had one for 3 years and from my experience (car nut) had NO MAJOR PROBLEMS whatsoever in owning the car. One common problem is that the oil seals under the wheel arch can leak, and this is a cheap repair.

Be careful when buying though, the 2nd Generation 2.4 is prone to Head Gasket Failure so KEEP AWAY FROM THIS UNLESS IT HAS HAD A NEW HEAD GASKET.
For under £5,000 you will get more than a decent 3.0TDI Intercooled new model with all of the extras. Superb value for money with good-ish fuel economy (25-32 MPG).
SSR-G is the one to get.

www.toyotahilux.com RoughTrax for parts

www.hiluxsurf.co.uk Owners Club WELL WORTH A VISIT. SEE FOR SALE SECTION.

Answer 2

Big family, big dog, big problem - NOT!
Disco 300 is good but would be very cramped for space.
Have a look at a Mitsubishi Delica 2800.
This is a Jap import, based on a Shogun floorpan with all Shogun bits BUT has an MPV body. I bought a 7 seat version, with cristal lite roof for extra light. Has all the toys, 4WD, and can pull our caravan with little effort. I get around 25mpg running, 22mpg towing! Loads of room inside and with 7 proper seats took 6 full size adults on a 300 mile journey recently. Excellent views, auto box with o/drive, totally effortless cruising. Most come out of Japan at 10 yrs old, cost around £4 - 5 k. Height is a problem, mine is over 7ft tall so no multi-storey car parks! Look down on Range Rovers with scorn! Discos fit in the boot!! Bit quirky on looks but one of the most capable vehicles I have ever owned. (Most parts from main dealer within 24 hrs - big stuff - up to 1 week - better than F**d!)

Answer 3

Since gas went past $3/gal, the used car market is flooded with large cars & trucks here in the US. Maybe you could import one there.