Hi Emamum.
I too am in the market for a seven seater - am a childminder and mum to 3. Been scouring the second hand market and showrooms for at least six months - even got a post on here.
At present I LOVE my Fiat Multipla 2002 (which is a six seater, and for sale
). But needs must.
As said above, think practically. I have had to reject most of the uptodate seven seaters, including the Fiat Doblo Family which I wanted) because of BOOT SPACE. If you can't fit a double pram, a nappy bag and a picnic in, let alone a week's worth of shopping, then it's not gonna suit a large family.
Also, we had a Renault Espace for three years and you could not pay me to have another one. Yes, the seats came out and was very practical but the engine was useless. The amounts of faults and difficulties that cost a lot to repair (being as how we too thought diesel was cheaper) were not worth the hassel. The highlight of it being tempremental in the rain!!! In bad weather, car refused to start! Funny now but not when you have it loaded with six kids and one stressed out mummy at the seaside!
If you find anything out, please share it here. Loving Derekgas recommendation for the Chrysler. Will definitely look into that one. x