Baby boomers

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), Nov 3, 2006

Byline: By Matthew Tumbridge

Starting a family has an impact no one can really appreciate until it happens. All sorts of things that are taken for granted before the little one arrives are suddenly under threat.

Sleep is the first thing that goes out the window. But, sadly, so do the small and fun cars. For a little person, a baby doesn't travel light.

Mums also need a car that makes life as easy as possible.

Here are three models which fit the bill:

Honda Jazz

Practical, cheap to run and spacious. Almost perfect small hatch but that means prices are very firm.

It is easy to park and very easy to load up with the shopping and baby luggage. Well equipped and a favourite with private buyers.

Most economical: 1.4 49.6mpg

Best used buy: 1.4 SE

UsedCarExpert.com buyers checks: 5

Renault Scenic

It is easier to manoeuvre and live with than a full people mover. Plenty of room, cheap to run and buy.

It may only seat five but it is very practical and the large number in the marketplace mean low prices. Revised model from 1999.

Most economical: 1.9 dTi 49.6mpg

Best used buy: 1.8 Alize

UsedCarExpert.com buyers checks: 26

Vauxhall Zafira

Clever and compact and getting cheaper.

It has built on the strengths of the Scenic but improved slightly in all areas.

One of the best medium sized people carriers and being a Vauxhall, lots around at low prices.

Most economical: 2.0 DTI 42.8mpg

Best used buy: 2.2 Elegance.

UsedCarExpert.com buyers checks: 14