Time for something bigger...

[kalniel]

MK 4 Astra - also a hatchback but has 370l of boot space which isn't small

You'll get more mondeo for the money, but the astra is a bit lighter and good diesels are within the price range.

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback - 1.7 DTi 16V Envoy 5d - Facts & Figures - Parker's

[Vimeous]

Just so you know, Hatchbacks aren't all small and Golf/Polo-sized

Mondeos come in Hatchback, Saloon and Estate form

.... as do the affore mentioned Octavia's. You asked if they're any good. Answer - Yes.
Call it half-way between a Golf and Passat in size with a fine sized boot.

Another possibility, although it'll need big miles to be cheap, it the Skoda Superb. Think Passat but with alot more rear leg room

[Guy]

MK 4 Astra - also a hatchback but has 370l of boot space which isn't small

You'll get more mondeo for the money, but the astra is a bit lighter and good diesels are within the price range.

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback - 1.7 DTi 16V Envoy 5d - Facts & Figures - Parker's

The Mk 3 Mondy's have a 500l Boot!