The C4 Piccaso is not a smaller car, and the C-Max is also available with the same 1.6 diesel engine. There's a new C-Max on the way, though not until late 2010, so existing models in stock will be going cheaply. (See car-by-car breakdown at hjuk.) Also consider a Nissan Note (1.5DCi, if you want a £35 tax diesel). That has high seats that are easy to get in and out of. Demonstrated on video at www.honestjohn.co.uk