08 Aug 07
The long-running Previa has slipped off the radar a bit, but despite not being the most state-of-the-art new purchase, it's a very dependable second-hand buy in either petrol or diesel form. It has also consistently scored very well in reliability and customer satisfaction surveys.
Toyota Previa
It's heavy and rather slow, but it is an easy drive and not too ponderous to manoeuvre. It's not going to be the most engaging, characterful car to own, but it's useful, with fully-removable, sliding/folding rear seats and should give a no-hassles ownership experience.
Alternatively, if you're after that Toyota reliability but don't want something quite this big, check out the seven-seat Avensis Verso (2001-2006, from £5,500).
Road Test: Toyota Previa
Road Test: Toyota Avensis Verso