Skoda octavia VRS estate

 

Whatever you get, set aside £200 for a Hatchbag. Best dog proofing thing ever!

 

I've had two V40's, the last of which was a T4 and that too was capable of surprising many drivers. Best Volvo I've had to date (on my 4th).

Not all Volvo's are Fords, well not all that you would get for £5k. V50's are Ford based and gettable for the money, but I have one at the moment and it is probably the worst Volvo I've had (reliability wise).
V70's post 2007 (current model) share mondeo components but any before that have nothing to do with Fords.
Stay away from the V70r, the ones made from around 03 onwards, as the engines are weak and so too is the Haldex 4wd system. I can't see the link above, but the earlier V70r (facelifted 850r) is a stonking car.

Basically, the older Volvos are better!

Personally I wish sometimes that I bought a Leggy estate instead of the V50.

 

No ones mentioned a Forester

I have a 2.5xt, goes like the clappers and very practical.

£5k would get you a lovely example.

 

Yes they have ^
Any problems reported on these with regards the head gasket and piston ring land like the Impreza 2.5?

Have been trying to persuade some friends that is what they should get to tow their horsebox.