Honda - FR-V

With two rows of three seats, FR-V has room for six adults plus their luggage (the only other midi-MPV to rival this is the Fiat Multipla). The rear three seats can be folded individually, and the front middle seat used as an armrest.

FR-V offers safety as well as style, with airbags for all six occupants. Comfort is enhanced by the long wheelbase and wide track. But wind noise is a problem at motorway speeds. FR-V comes with a five-speed gearbox with the 1.7 petrol engine, and six-speed in the 2.0 petrol and 2.2 diesel units. The impressive turbo-diesel has lots of power and good fuel economy. Petrol models are smooth but feel a little stretched at high speed.

Equipment is good, with standard climate control and a CD player.

A service pack option covers servicing to 5 years/60,000 miles (excluding consumables such as tyres and brake pads). It's transferable, so ask about it if you're considering a used FR-V.