It's getting to be time for a new motor. What I'd really like is
something with the performance of a Farrari, the fuel economy of a moped
and the load space of a Transit. And if they pay me to take it off
their hands, that would be nice too.

Just in case I don't come across one of these models, does anyone have
any sensible suggestions for a practical car that can accommodate DIY
needs?

Most of my driving is in the city but there are enough 150-mile-plus
motorway trips to be a factor. I was thinking vaguely of a Jag XJ,
until I saw someone trying (and failing) to get an 8-foot timber into
one in a car park. I can squeeze 3m into my current Avensis. Now I'm
wondering if a 5-series estate would be a good plan.

Previous cars were a Renault Scenic (great engine and internal design,
as the seats come out in seconds to make a van; poor construction that
shook itself apart in no time) and Honda CRV (good driving position, not
as much space as you'd expect, very poor fuel comsumption).