What car should I get

soupdragon10

I am looking to change my current 1.6 diesel ford focus as I have some spare money and need a more dog friendly car plus this one is a pita.

Criteria are
1. Must have a reasonably high driving position (no lower than focus)
2. Need room for a large dog - he is large rottweiller sized plus another small dog (she will go on the back seat if access is sufficient)
3. Economical as possible so I can afford to run this when I retire (don't mind petrol or diesel)
4. Reasonable ground clearance as I live in a very rural area and we have lumps, bumps and potholes plus a steep drive

I am looking to spend £4000 - £5000 or so on my next car and want to get it right. I might go higher for the right car (but not silly money).

I am going round in circles trying to find the right car to fit all these criteria, and thought I would ask a panel of experts what they thought.

sh0597

I guess an SUV such as X-Trail or RAV4.

forgotmyname

Have you thought about a Focus. Seems to fit all your needs.

Why is your current one a pita?

soupdragon10

Think it was a Friday afternoon car - had nothing but trouble with it since I've had it. I got it because my previous focus estate was so good, but this one has had one problem after another.

roonaldo

soupdragon10 wrote: »

Think it was a Friday afternoon car - had nothing but trouble with it since I've had it. I got it because my previous focus estate was so good, but this one has had one problem after another.

dont buy a diesel then

soupdragon10

My estate was a diesel, so it's not diesel that's the problem. Simply this car has been nothing but trouble since I got it. Was hoping for helpful suggestions about alternatives that might fit my bill. The hatchback is difficult with our big dog too.

heartbreak_star

The chaps across the road from us have a Dacia Duster and they fit a boxer and a bulldog in there?

HBS x

Trebor16

Have you considered a Skoda Octavia? Both the hatchback and estate versions have a large boot.

Johnandabby

Toyota Verso - it has a high driving position, good clearance, and plenty of boot space. Not for £4-5k though, but a great car

marlot

Many of the dog walkers in our area use berlingos, which seem to met your criteria

stef73

Do you like your focus? Have you looked at a c-max if you do?