Hi New Here And Need Advice

[rayc]

Hi everyone,

 

I'm based in Deal near Dover and am thinking of purchasing my first Galaxy.

 

I dont have fortunes to spend but definately want a diesel due to running costs etc.

 

Will be looking for Ghia spec as it has climate etc.

 

My reason for late purchase. Got 5 kids all growing up (I have an American day van as family wheels). I currently run a 406 saloon diesel. The galaxy would be mainly used for work (I work in Calais and have to take crisps etc over so van usage a plus). I have recently aquired two german shepherd pups which struggle to get in the Peugeot now so 3 seats removed and I have a good 4 seater with room for the dogs and luggage.

 

On reading through various posts over the last couple of weeks I appreciate these cars (as all others) do have problems and that Ford dealers in the main are useless (I vowed never to own a Ford again after the absolute shoddy and unproffesional service of a Ford main dealer in Canterbury). So a good independent seems the way forward.

 

Can anyone give me realistic mpg figures (must be the 110 or 115 I reckon). Reliability, noise levels, quality of equipment etc. please.

 

I look forward to any comments

 

Many thanks

 

Ray

[big_kev]

Hi Rayc,

 

An average mpg for the diesel would be around 42mpg ( lots of debate on the site about mpg, but this is what I get, although would be better if I wellied it less ).

 

Definitely go for the Ghia ( or Ghia X if looking at MK1's ) as you get more with the higher specs and the price is pretty much the same.

Some models only have Aircon in the front and you may want to look around for ones that have Rear Aircon.

 

Reliability is pretty good, A/C seems to be a common failure as do various electrical niggles....however they are all known and cures are readily available.

 

Noise level is excellent at speed ie quiet !

 

Quality of equipment is also very good.

 

p.s Consider the VW Sharan or the Seat Alhambra as well as they are all made by VW ( as is the Ford Galaxy ! ).......you won't be owning a Ford which ever one you buy ;)

[rayc]

Hi Kev

 

Thanks for that info. I didn't know the rear A/c wasn't on all cars so will definately check for that one.

 

With regard to VW & Seat. What spec models give similar to Ghia in the Ford. Also I assume Ghia X isn't available in the Mk2 (But I have seen some advertised as such)

 

Cheers

 

Ray

[big_kev]

I believe that the top of the range VW Sharan is called the "Carat".

 

and the top of the range Seat Alhambra is called the "Stylance".

 

I could be wrong on this and I am sure the Shazza and Bamma owners will let me know.