A year ago, I’d only consider a car if it had over 200bhp, really poor fuel consumption, and offensive insurance premiums. A year ago my ideal car was all about performance, handling, and fun. A year ago my ideal car was a Subaru Impreza WRX.

My son is approaching 8 months of age. My perspective has shifted. Now, I want a car that’s got exceptional fuel economy, cheap insurance premiums, yet is large enough to cope with family life (and prams). It’s got to have a diesel engine, the 1.9TDI seemingly industry standard for family cars. In an ideal world it’ll look like a sheep in wolfs clothing. All show, and no go. Just to retain a bit of fun.

I’m still shopping, but the aim is to reduce the insurance premium by at least 60%, and double the fuel economy. I have my eye on a few cars, all big 4 door saloons. TSB Car Select appear to be far more competitive than any of the main dealers, despite sourcing their cars from those very same dealers. We’ll see what happens.