What should we do about replacing our Volvo S40?

I was thinking about changing my Volvo S40 1.6d for a crossover for ease of access as we are pushing on age wise. What would you recommend that is comfortable, reliable and economical bearing in mind our annual mileage is approx 20,000km? We don't need a big vehicle as our family are reared. Also, how much is our own car worth? Is it better to sell it privately or use it as a trade in?

Thank you.

John Kennedy (Dublin)

Feb 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi John,

I'm afraid without knowing the year of your S40 it's impossible to give you an idea of the value but I would suggest trading it in rather than trying to sell it yourself - it saves an awful lot of hassle and heartache. As for what to get, try either a Skoda Yeti or a Nissan Qashqai. Both are as reliable as they come, comfy and with a higher (but not too high) seating position. And both are spacious enough that when those reared kids start dropping off the grandkids for a weekend, you'll have room in the back...

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe