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Hi,
I am looking for a good practical family station wagon. Obviously the usual of a safe vehicle & good running costs. We currently have a Caldina. We live on a farm so something that could handle a little off-road would be good. I don't want an SUV as I am really short & find it hard lifting the kids up into their seats! However, my husband is really tall so something where he has some space without hitting his head! We are looking to spend around the $10,000 mark though if the bank was very kind would go to $20,000 if it made a huge difference in vehicles. We had been looking at a Subaru Outback but just wanted some independent advice.

Thank you!!

Hi there,
I have no problem recommending a Subaru. Maybe even a Forester?. The Outback from 2010 onwards is a good choice for both more ground clearance while still an attractive station wagon.
These however are not known for their fuel economy.
You may also want to check out the Mazda CX5 as they are more small medium SUV type.