SOME MAY VIEW estate cars as boxy, less-appealing versions of saloons. But for many, estates are a better alternative to taller crossovers or SUVs and can offer greater amounts of luggage capacity.
Here’s a look a five of the best estates that you can buy for under €10,000.
When it comes to space and practicality, few cars on the market offer the same value as the Skoda Octavia. The estate version sold between 2004 and 2013 – known as the Combi in Skoda-speak – offers a massive 605 litres of boot space, growing to 1,655 litres when you fold the back seats down.
Most models sold in Ireland were the 1.6-litre TDI – generally a good engine, but do watch out for EGR faults, which can be common. If you do a lot of towing it’s worth going for the 4×4 model as it is rated to pull heavier loads.
Estate versions of the third-generation Ford Mondeo aren’t as common as the saloon, making them harder to come by, but they are worth seeking out. Aside from the cavernous 1,733 litres of boot space, many estate models also came with roof rails.
The Mondeo is a very comfortable car to travel in, making it ideal for longer journeys. There are some petrol versions available, but many chose the 1.8-litre TDCi diesel, which is generally a reliable engine but do look out for any power steering issues. It scored a full five stars in the Euro NCAP test, earning the maximum score for adult occupant protection at the time.
Looking for something posh that doesn’t cost the earth? You’ll be needing a Jaguar X-Type Estate then. Beneath the upmarket exterior and leather-clad interior are the mechanicals that it shares with the third generation Ford Mondeo.
Ride quality is, therefore, good and rear passenger and boot space are both decent. While you could have one with a V6, most sold in Ireland were the 2.0-litre four-cylinder. Although not as smooth or powerful they can be quite frugal, so you shouldn’t face massive fuel bills.
The Honda badge might not have the same cachet as some premium German cars, but the Accord Tourer can rival them in every way. Not only does it still look good today, but it is also a car that was well built, and that shows in the cabin. It features a comfortable, ergonomic driving position, and on the move it handles particularly well.
The estate features a wide aperture, which is perfect for getting bikes and bulky items in and out and there are also some clever underfloor storage areas. Its 2.2-litre diesel is one of the quietest engines around and has good levels of performance and fuel economy. Honda Accords generally enjoy a high reputation for reliability, and you shouldn’t be put off by examples with higher mileage.
The Dacia brand may be a relatively new player in the Irish market but its Ryanair-like approach to bringing cheap motoring to the masses can’t be ignored. Its Logan MCV is the estate version of its small hatchback. With a 573-litre boot, which expands to 1,518 litres, it can match the load space of cars a segment above.
Engine choice is limited to a 1.5-litre DCi diesel (similar to that found in many Nissan and Renault models) or a 0.9-litre petrol. The latter may seem tiny, but it is actually up to the job. It may be far from luxurious inside, but it does represent good value for money if you’re only looking for a relatively new car to get from A to B.
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