I am getting myself a little confused over the diesel/petrol debate. I realise that you need to do more mileage to benefit from diesel but did not realise that there were numerous items in the car which would require replacement regardless of miles travelled - shorter journeys indicate even quicker replacement of parts.

I have been looking at the Mercedes E-Class estate 250 CDI Blue Efficiency with auto gearbox (boot is bigger than the BMW 5 tourer, which I think you prefer) but normally only do short journeys during the week and longer at weekends - apart from holidays which can be long distances and high speeds.

Total mileage is normally 15 to 17,000 per year. I think you might advise petrol as per my current car but would welcome confirmation.

Also is it still possible to obtain discounts for Mercedes-Benz from dealerships as margins must be tighter due to the Euro/GBP exchange rate problems.

Drive the Deal still offers what I consider a very good discounted price and from your previous comments you have no problems with them at all.