Kia Carens or Vauxhall Zafira Tourer?

[GreenTuftyFlowers]

Looking for a 7 seater petrol as the vast majority of journeys are shortish and slow local-ish ones (between 2 - 10 miles, never getting much above 40 mph). Budget £8-£12k.

Ideally would like a VW Touran or Citroen Grand Picasso but very limited selection in petrol.

There are loads of Zafiras around but not keen - they look a bit grotty and uninspiring inside and mixed reviews, but I can't find a cast iron reason not to get one as they tick all boxes otherwise!

Also currently considering a Kia Carens as they seem good value but don't know much about them - help! Any experience gratefully received :)

Priorities are comfortable and spacious-ish when loaded up with 5 people (hence preferring 7 seater), also flexible and decent sized boot). And economical.

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Hi,
have experience of both.

First of all, the Carens is superior to the Zafira tourer, but at your price range the Carens will be older.
The only thing the Zafira Tourer has over the Carens is a better nicer to drive petrol engine (1.4 T)
Provided the Carens you buy has full main dealer service history, you can continue to benefit from the 7 year warranty.

A left field suggestion if you wanted a brand new 7 seater for £12k it would be the Fiat Doblo 1.4 petrol with the family pack
I know of a Fiat dealer who is selling these with discount for around £12k which is a hell of a lot of new car for the money.
The beauty of the Doblo, as its based on a van - parts and servicing costs are very cheap, as is the insurance.

May i recommend you do buy a petrol 7 seater.
Why?
Not only will it not suffer from diesel bans, complicated engines and expensive components, difficult MOT examination to pass and poor re-sale value.
But also there is a huge shortage of petrol 7 seaters, they are going to hold their value well in the coming years with demand increasing.

Great, thank you, that's v helpful :)

One that was putting me off the Kia was the smallish boot capacity compared to others in the class, but it doesn't seem obviously smaller so will have another look.

Funny enough was seriously considering the Berlingo as there are lots around here but was put off by the not too great safety record, will research the Doblo though.