NEVER has a vehicle fitted so perfectly into a market category as the Renault Grand Espace with its amazing spacious design, drive appeal and comprehensive safety record helping it stand out in any crowd.

It has to be one of the largest multi-purpose vehicles on the market, but despite having the room to transport seven people and all their luggage requirements in style, it remains remarkably easy to manoeuvre.

Admittedly parking sensors and the impressive all-round visibility are a bonus, but the Grand Espace is deceptively nimble in busy city centre traffic.

The inside has been beautifully designed with leather trim and a minimalist theme running throughout - very few dials, buttons or controls are on show.

The air con system is controlled via buttons on the driver or passenger's doors and even the sound system is tucked away inside a drop-down compartment.

Many features are operated from the multi-functional steering wheel or a central control dial which brings into play the sat nav, audio system and Bluetooth hands free accessories.

But for me, the Grand Espace is all about comfort.

Families these days are getting larger and lead more active lifestyles and generally they need a vehicle to reflect that versatility.

And that's exactly where the Grand Espace comes into play. The seats be turned, folded or removed depending on the requirements and with the massive panoramic sunroof spreading the length of the vehicle, all occupants are treated to a light and spacious environment for any journey.

Even the back row passengers benefit from a generous amount of legroom with easy access in and out of the vehicle.

Powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine, the Grand Espace proved a capable performer on the open road too.

The automatic transmission was very responsive and while it's never going to gain many points amongst the business driver or boy racer brigade, there is definitely a market for this vehicle - and it's a sector that is growing.

As one would expect, Renault has packed the Grand Espace with quality safety features including anti-lock brakes, electronic stability, a reinforced body structure, plenty of airbags and lots more besides.