I need to get a new motor. This time going to go new though. I usually buy used and then run it into the ground. I need to get something that I can easily get a wheelchair in and out of the boot of and fit three kids with their booster/child seats in the back. Need to be economical and easy for my Mrs to get in and out of. She is struck by the idea of a BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer 7 seater. Without the extra two seats up as a 5 seater there is loads of room for a wheelchair and/or my kit (tripods lighting stands, modifiers, flight cases etc) and there are occasions when being able to get 5 people in for band shoots etc would be handy. It's fairly economical if a bit dull. It's basically a stretched mini and all the BMW fans online are quite agitated that a front wheel drive has the badge and grill. To be honest I am not worried if it doesn't handle like a sports car and the current fashion for 4wd cars that are often only 2 wheel drive anyway doesn't bother me.

I think the Nissan Qashqai is a bit high for her to get in and out of and while for Chavs/Gypsy Princesses like my Daughter it is probably ideal (great mpg) it is not right for us. Any alternative suggestions would be handy going to test drive some in the next few weeks. Thought about the Ford C-Max ( the Ford Torneo Connect looks like the car itself is a window licker) Seat Alhambra ,Citroen C4 etc

Here is the Beamer



It's not very exciting to look at (or drive I expect) but the inside is well lush and you get a lot even on the standard models thrown in.



Loads of room at the back for a smallish MPV (connecting country lanes can be quite tiny down here in the westcountry) that will spend more time in towns and cities than bombing between them