Drove 370 miles up north yesterday.

One issue was that the cruise dropped out twice unexpectedly - it had probably been set for up to half an hour each time. Wasn't really an issue but I know it was reported previously on early cars, but assumed it was more regular / more of a pain than this - was there a resolution to this?

Otherwise car felt great and chuffed with space as first time loaded up with 2 adults, 2 kids, 3 large suitcases, trunkie kids case thing, big pushchair, Moses basket for the young one, coats, boots, toys, camera bag, laptop rucksack (basically alot). I actually think the suspension is better when loaded - and seemed quieter.

Columbus worked well and was pleased with traffic report - came across 1 overturned caravan on the a1 m and the Columbus warned us about it before the police cars came up in the outside lane - fortunately not major incident, no one injured by looks of it, and nav estimate lay only 10 min delay (so didnt reroute) and was spot on with it.

Wife and I both commented after 8 hours of travelling with two kids that we both felt fresh enough and actually enjoyed the journey - hopefully will feel the same on the way home in a week or so.

Agree about the noise and ride being better with a bit of weight on. As a warning I did get a spurious tyre pressure warning on one trip with 3,adults, two kids and all the clutter. I checked the tyres, not far off on pressures, reset the system and no further problems.

On the two occasions mine has been on a good run I have found it to be very capable in all respects, it is the combis trump card, comfortable, roomy and quick enough.

I too find that when loaded, the car is not just quieter but feels more settled to drive, reminds me a little of driving an old Capri with bags of ballast in the boot just keep the back end under control!

I just wonder if the suspension has been set up (maybe on the estate) for heavier loads, assuming that cars will be used this way. Maybe after a few years / miles the suspension will loosen up and be more settled.

I just wonder if the suspension has been set up (maybe on the estate) for heavier loads, assuming that cars will be used this way. Maybe after a few years / miles the suspension will loosen up and be more settled.

I think you will find the rear suspension components are identical on hatch and estate at any particular spec level.

Were the rear tyres pressure increased for the extra rear payload?

Not in my case, I also had winter tyres on, so might have something to do with the TP warning, as the tyres heated up.