VAUXHALL'S new Meriva is packed with family friendly features, but despite its obvious width, it can only carry five adults for short distances because of limited rear seat space.

The innovative rear hinged back doors make for very easy access and Vauxhall's latest warranty could last a lifetime - but only if you keep the car.

I drove the 1.4 118bhp turbo which was smooth and reasonably powerful, without in any way setting the world alight.

Acceleration is very linear, with no sudden urge at any particular speed but there is enough for safe overtaking given care.

The ride is comfortable over most rougher surfaces and passengers told me it was also good in the back.

The road-holding is very good, with excellent grip and very good balance giving high safety. But the steering is not very informative and there is a fair amount of noise at speed.

The driving position has plenty of adjustment and there's good visibility all round. Equipment is excellent on top models but lower order cars miss out on aircon, which is very short sighted this days.

: Citroen C3 Picasso