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My husband, now retired, has driven Mercedes for many years but his latest Mercedes C180 estate no longer provides a comfortable driving position for him or easy access when getting in as he needs a higher seat and at 6'2" he needs good legroom too. We need space for a dog so a 4-door hatchback or estate might suit and good fuel consumption is also an important consideration now. Any ideas for a new or second-hand car around £18,000 would be very gratefully received by me at least as he's not doing anything other than groan about the discomfort.

Asked on 28 August 2010 by LL, via email

Answered by Honest John
There is, of course, the Mercedes B Class. But it's an extremely ugly car. The A Class is prettier. Possibly a new model Meriva. I was very impressed by that and Vauxhall has specifically designed it to be kind to backs. See video: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/vauxhall/vauxhall-...o The Ford C-Max offers excellent front seat access and lots of front seat room but is due for the chop at the end of the year. If you don't mind that, make sure you get a huge discount, of around £7,000. For the C-Max, try www.drivethedeal.com Don't go for a diesel unless you plan on driving 15,000 miles a year or more. A modern diesel with a particulate filter is totally unsuitable for short runs.
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
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