What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks
What is a reliable family car?
I need to trade in my three-year-old Mazda 6 2.2 diesel. I drive approximately 20,000 miles per annum but over winding country roads and usually short journeys of 5 to 20 miles with only occasional motorway/long distance journeys. Should I buy diesel/petrol/hybrid? And can you recommend a reliable five-seater family car (ideally comfortable to drive and with a big boot) that won't give me problems?
Asked on 26 February 2019 by Judith Davoren
Answered by
Andrew Brady
A hybrid could work - but there aren't many hybrid family cars as big as your Mazda, and many are plug-in hybrids which can be quite thirsty without regular charging. We'd be looking for a petrol. If you like your Mazda, issues aside, the petrol Mazda 6 is more reliable than the diesel. Also, consider a Skoda Superb or Volvo S60. Both are very comfortable options.
Choosing a child seat can be a quite baffling experience – there are so many sizes, types, brands and price points available that you might not know where to start.
How to choose the right child seatSimilar questions
I have owned a 2008 Ford Focus 1.6 auto and it has proved reliable. I am disabled and think an estate car would be good as it would give me easier access for my mobility scooter. I have up to £20,000 to...
We’re thinking of changing our 2012 Honda Accord Diesel Tourer for something with as much or more room - we need the space for sailing gear - but with a softer ride, more directional stability on motorways,...
I am currently considering buying a Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid, new or near-new. Are you aware of any significant reliability issues that might influence my choice?
Related models
.jpeg?width=115&height=75&rmode=crop)
Offers limousine levels of comfort and space, but with a very affordable price tag. Efficient engine options include plug-in hybrid models. Boot capacity is truly huge.
.jpg?width=115&height=75&rmode=crop)
Excellent range and performance from the plug-in hybrid model. Comfortable and spacious interior feels truly plush. Plenty of high-end technology included as standard.
Elsewhere on 
.jpg)
