Ok so it isn't a proper 4x4 but ...

And don't shoot me for suggesting it..

For 2K you could think about a..

Seriously don't shoot the messenger..

Renault Senic RX4 - gets good reviews.

 

i honestly have never even heard of that !Lol

 

Missed a 'c' ! Whoops ! Scenic RX4

 

You shouldn't knock the safety record of small cars. Fifth Gear ran one of their crash tests between a Renault Modus and a Volvo 740/760 Estate... at 40 mph the occupants of the Modus would not have suffered serious injury unlike the occupants of the Volvo.

The current Panda has a Euro-NCAP rating of 4 (same as the S2000 IIRC). Agree with the statements above that properly equipped 2WD cars (i.e. appropriate tyres) would be a better bet...

 

Are you Yoda?

 

I can't knock our Honda HRV 1.6 4x4. Bought it with 40k on the clock and now has 100k on it. It's never missed a beat!
You can pick them up for under 2k. The below is identical to ours:

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1567999.htm

 

Indeed; this view (prevalent of silly mothers) that their precious sprog will be safer in a 3-tonne behemoth because it will crush opponents to death in the inevitable accident is pure ignorance.

Renault Scenic 4x4. Just like a LR, you've got to be insane. Might as well buy a buss pass or a bicycle.

 

She's more chance of avoiding the accident at all in the Panda though.....

HRV or CRV if it's in budget would be a good choice if she absolutely positively has to have a soft-roader.

 

Exactly.

Don't forget that old Scoobydoo (non-turbo) estates can be picked up for stupid money and will last forever. They actually drive nicely, too.

 

i have one.