27 Jan 09
2. Peugeot 308 SW
The 308 SW estate looks and drives better than the lumpy, dumpy 308 hatchback. It's more versatile and much roomier than the Focus, Astra and Golf estates, without being much bigger in its external dimensions. And it can seat up to seven: SE models offer the option of a third row of small child-size seats.
The 1.6 HDI (110bhp) diesel engine's the best bet, but the new 1.6 VTi petrol (120bhp) is pretty good too; the 95bhp 1.4 VTi struggles a bit to shift a car this size, especially when loaded up with passengers and luggage.
The 308's reliability has been patchy, but the engines are tough and early electronic/electrical difficulties should have been sorted out by now. Independent brokers can offer £3,000 off list price.
3. Saab 9-3 Sportwagon
Some cars, such as the Saab 9-3, make more sense in estate form. The 9-3 saloon isn't a patch on BMW and Mercedes rivals, but as a Sportwagon it's transformed into a cool Swedish lifestyle accessory. Strap some skis to the roof rails, fit a bike-rack to the tailgate, load up the boot with camping equipment and it's effortlessly fashionable.
And the funny thing is, it's actually quite cheap now. Big discounts help it undercut the Volkswagen Passat estate, while the sluggish used market means that second-hand models can be cheaper than comparable Skoda Octavias. We've even seen brand-new ones with £6,000 off via independent brokers.
Steer clear of the thirsty V6 and opt for one of the classic Saab turbocharged four-cylinder engines: they're not terribly economical, but unless you do a very high mileage, you won't regret it.
