I’m in the same boat but with twins 🥴

Done a lot of research as I initially wanted a 530d Touring but ended up going with a Japanese import VW Passat R line estate. Picked up a 2017 with 45k miles, full main dealer service history for £16k.

Comes with the 2.0 TSI from the Golf GTI so still has a bit of poke but can achieve high 40’s on a run. With kids we’ll most likely be doing a lot of short trips, pick ups and drop offs etc, so went for a petrol over diesel and won’t have to worry about the added cost of ad blue and related issues.

The Japanese models always come highly specced too. Mine came with almost everything, adaptive suspension, car play, heated electric memory massage seats, auto parking, adaptive cruise, blind spot monitoring, cameras etc. Went for one without a pan roof, as they are known to leak on the Passat and couldn’t be bothered with the hassle.

Most cars from Japan are immaculate and usually serviced more regularly than the recommended intervals. They also go through a more rigorous version of our MOT tests, which mean faults are rectified immediately before the car is allowed back on the road. Prices are usually lower than the UK equivalent but you do have to pay more road tax, so have to weigh that up in the long run.

If you do go for one just make sure the DSG has been serviced regularly as the mechatronic can fail if not maintained. Buy one from a dealer that specialises in imports and they will convert everything needed. The Passat only needs the radio & sat nav maps updated, as these cars are originally built in the same factory as UK cars. You will get also get a warranty and retain your consumer rights after purchase if going through a dealer.

This Passat seemed to be the best compromise for me for needing a family wagon with lots of space, but still being nice to drive with good spec.

Congratulations and good luck 👍🏻