What Car? Q&A - Which car is best for my hearing dog?

Q: I'm planning to get a new car through the Motability scheme. I'm also expecting a dog from the 'Hearing Dogs for Deaf People' organisation. The vehicle I'm looking for needs to cost no more than £12,000, have manual air-conditioning and a dog-friendly boot. I don't fancy the idea of a dog cage, though. I have the Honda Jazz and Skoda Roomster in mind - do you have any other suggestions?
John Dutson

A: The safest way to transport your dog will be either behind a dog guard in the boot, or using a harness that secures the dog to a seat belt. You can buy a harness to fit the dog from a pet shop.

Both the Honda Jazz and the Skoda Roomster should meet your requirements. You could also consider the Citroen Berlingo, Fiat Doblo, Peugeot Partner Combi or Renault Kangoo, all of which come in under your price limit.

Their van origins mean that they provide an enormous amount of space in their boots. Air-conditioning is an optional extra on these vehicles, but it doesn't take any out of your price range.