I've had a 2.2 litre diesel X-Trail since new in late 2002 when I retired early. It’s a fantastic car and has given me no trouble whatsoever in all that time, although it has to be said that I have only done some 78,000 miles and fuel costs would therefore not be my first consideration. As much as I love it, it must surely go the way of all flesh eventually, and I'm wondering what my options are?

While I'd be happy to replace it for another, now's the time to look around. I love the X-Trail's 4-wheel drive but, while I like the all-terrain option, it isn't vital, although I do live in a very rural area and do use it off-road the odd time. I have two large dogs that go everywhere with me, so the rear space is important, and the missus and I do like a bit of comfort, very especially on our odd long journeys. Being a pensioner, the pennies still need to be considered, but I am not heavily constrained in that department although I do still like to stick to the old "buy cheap, buy twice" adage that I was brought up to observe. Any views on what's out there for me?