I think I'd probably choose a Mercedes A-class, specifically the long-wheelbase model. It's nearly as big inside as your BMW, has four doors (so getting kids out is easy), but is about the same size as the Peugeot 308 on the outside. The ride quality, especially in the LWB version, is good.

It's well-built, has a four-star NCAP rating, and is reasonably fuel-efficient.

if this is ur very first car after obtaining ur driver's license, then my recommendation would be to go for a cheap second hand car which you can "cut ur teeth on"....that way u wont feel too bad in case u accidentally bump it somewhere.

once u feel more confident in a year or 2 u can very well check out the latest models on the market... i personally recommend the honda civic as it is amazing to drive (very smooth), high mileage, almost maintenance free (plus honda's great after sales service) and good resale value.....i drove one when i was in the states for a year and it was a dream to run and maintain. definitely go for the manual transmission as the auto feels a bit underpowered...

but whatever u do, for heaven sake please do not go for a SUV .... there are enough of them as it is on the roads and they dont do anyone any benefit!

If you have kids then I highly recommend having 4 doors, I have tried putting kids in back seats in 2 door cars and after a while it completely does your back in. 4 doors would be high on my list if you have kids!

I think it might depend on the car. If it is a very small hatchback it is worse than a two door.
I would say to strap kids into baby seats etc is easier with a two door if the car doors are large because when you tilt the seat up it usually moves the seats forward aswell and then you can physically get into the car to strap the brats in.
Just an observation I have made.

I don't like the of being in the back of a car having to exit in a crash past front seat driver or passenger. However the VW Beetlehas a high safety record,plus even in a 4-door car most people put the child safety locks on.

The VW Beetle is much more reliable than an Audi in my experience and doesn't seem to have the Jetta electrical problems.

Porsche 911 GT2 or nothing.

Another suggestion, just to confuse you, what about a VW Polo.

If I was a psychologist; I would say your heart is on a Mini though and you would regret it if you bought anything else.

Compromise between a Mini and a Porsche= Smorsche:

http://www.vaporsmagazine.com/2008/1...r-conversions/

How about a BMW 1-series? I've never driven one, but since you like your husbands 5-series I'd give it a try. BMW also has some of the most efficient engines on the market.

The Audi A3 might be another option. I once got one as a loaner when my A4 was in the shop and I was very pleased with the car.

IMHO you can't go wrong with a VW Golf either.

BTW if you care about the environment and the air you breathe, please do not buy a diesel unless it's one of the latest models (Bluetec etc.) which already meet the EURO6 specs. Otherwise you will be polluting the air with much more poisonous nitrogen oxide (NOx) than with a petrol car. This is an important fact that many people overlook these days, because everybody seems to be focused on CO2 only.

When we moved here, we were planning to get a BMW 1 series, until I drove it. I think the visibility was better in my old Audi TT. I just felt like I was driving in a cave. Also, I found the clutch very tempermental. I kept stalling out (and I have driven a standard transmission for more than 20 years).

I think a nicely maintained, used Golf is a good choice. I had Jettas (Boras) in the US, and despite electrical issues, they were excellent cars. But Golfs seem to be better. Peppy, easy to drive, good visibility, and feel safe. They hold the road well, and the clutch is usually forgiving. I thought I would like the beetle, but the visibility was weird... like I was in a bubble.

We have an alfa sportwagon, and although I love the car, it's not for a new driver. The front end is too big.

Peugeot - cheapest car I ever owned. Avoid Mitsubishi , Nissan , Mazda...these are the most expensive cars I,ve owned (for repairs )

You are spot on, cashboy: the only car I really like is the Mini but my husband thinks that the VW Polo is the most sensible choice. I think I will at some point definitely get a Mini -- whatever I buy now will hopefully not be my first and last car...

Forgot to add: I scratched my husband's BMW in our underground parking the other day. Hardly noticeable, but I was very upset. Luckily, he wasn't.

what about a Mercedes A 150 or170

My girfriend is getting one today and she is really exited.