Hi Orla,

As a parent myself I always think a compact estate is the best way to go – it’s the best mix of running costs, safety and space  and usually much nicer to drive than an equivalent SUV or MPV. For your money, I’d recommend looking at a Toyota Auris Sport Tourer (and have a look for a hybrid version if you’re going to be doing low mileage and spending most of your time in town), a Skoda Octavia Combi (great to drive and a terrific 1.6 TDI diesel engine) or a Peugeot 308 SW (stylish and comfy  with a massive boot). Your budget should get you into a 2013 model, but you could go a bit older if you fancied something a bit posher, such as a BMW 3 Series Touring or an Audi A4 Avant. You’d be sacrificing newness and some space at that point though.