10k ULEZ compliant estate

[lightgear]

Hi very long time lurker here,
Since my test I've been running around in sheds of cars. However, with Ulez schemes coming in a lot of cities soon, and budget allowing for up to 10k I've decided to get a nice newer car which is future proof. Needs to be dog friendly , heated seats, cruise control, A/C. I live in Scotland and a lot of driving is on country roads, so something with a bit more oomph would be nice (I've only had around 110hp to play with so far).

Estates are what I prefer, but open to suggestions.
Cheers

[ZX10R NIN]

Lots of choice at this price point I'm guessing you want a diesel? In which case these are my picks.

Focus ST-2 185 very good handling not sure if it's big enough for what you want:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106043...

Mondeo Titanium with the X Pack 180 these still handle well & they're a nicer place to be, as well as having more room everywhere:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106143...

508 GT 180 underrated loaded with kit nice handling with the added positive/negative of being a conventional auto:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106294...

V60 R Design Nav 180 good cars but I'd buy the Focus as it's the sweeter steer:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202107014...

Leon FR with Tech Pack 180 as above

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202107014...

The best VFM ULEZ compliant estate is the new shape Insignia you'll get a Tech Line Nav 170 with sensible miles for a little over your budget before haggling:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202104141...

SRI Nav 170

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202102088...

Or you can get the older shape but in fully loaded auto Elite Nav 170 Spec with low miles & a years Vauxhall Warranty:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202107054...

[ALawson]

What are the 508 GTs like in terms of reliability? Company car allowance means I need to ditch a 56 Accord Estate for some thing 2016 or newer (could be older if plug in hybrid). Have noticed these 508s but cannot see past badge!

Would a slightly more expensive E be a better bet or Skoda?

[ZX10R NIN]

ALawson said:

What are the 508 GTs like in terms of reliability? Company car allowance means I need to ditch a 56 Accord Estate for some thing 2016 or newer (could be older if plug in hybrid). Have noticed these 508s but cannot see past badge!

Would a slightly more expensive E be a better bet or Skoda?

The 508 is very reliable, the engine is same as used in the Mondeo so reliability has been well proven they have a nice interior too. The Skoda is no better & imo is a smidge off.

I'd say go & test drive one

Also test drive the newer Insignia too as it's a very good car, the Mondeo is the best FWD of them all but they hold their money a bit better & the two above are good options.

The E Class is a step up but you'll be spending more, if you're looking at the E Class then also look at the Jaguar XF Sportbrake.

[ALawson]

ZX10R NIN said:

The 508 is very reliable, the engine is same as used in the Mondeo so reliability has been well proven they have a nice interior too. The Skoda is no better & imo is a smidge off.

I'd say go & test drive one

Also test drive the newer Insignia too as it's a very good car, the Mondeo is the best FWD of them all but they hold their money a bit better & the two above are good options.

The E Class is a step up but you'll be spending more, if you're looking at the E Class then also look at the Jaguar XF Sportbrake.

Ideally looking for a large square load space, some of the contenders are more rectangular on plan. Will have a look.