LOOKING for a smaller family people carrier that's versatile and fun to drive? Then take a look at the Renault Modus.

I've just done over 200 miles in two days in the 1.5-litre diesel and I left it hugely impressed with the performance and almost everything else.

While it would be hard pressed to carry four and all their luggage on holiday, it does everything else brilliantly.

This excellent diesel engine is one of the best in the world. It's amazingly quiet and refined, punchy and willing, yet is hugely economical and has very low emissions.

There's not much acceleration in fifth gear of five but fourth is much better. However, there are times when more than the 86bhp available would have been good.

All the controls are light and easy - from the clutch to the power steering - and the ride is very good over all surfaces even at slow speeds.

With such comfort, I expected the road-holding and roll to suffer but not so. It is great fun, surprisingly agile and has loads of grip.

Interior

The boot is a little small but there's always the bigger Grande Modus if you want to spend the extra.

Split folding rear seats add versatility and there's storage space all around the cabin. In Dynamique spec, little equipment is lacking, the seats are comfortable and the driving position excellent.

Marks: 10/10

Main rival: Skoda Roomster