SEAT'S Altea midi MPV should be a great choice for family transport and something which stands out from the crowd of people carriers.

The five seater has been available in standard and long wheelbase XL forms, and a four wheel drive version was available for a time.

There are 1.2, 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol engines, plus 1.6, 1.9 and 2.0-litre diesels.

Obviously, the diesels are the best to go for second-hand, although they do retain more of their value over the years because they are more sought after.

The ideal for most people would be the 1.9 diesel turbo, which - although sometimes a little noisy - has decent performance and almost 50mpg economy.

They are all good to drive, with the excellent VW group power steering and a comfortable ride in all but the sporty FR versions.

The handling and road-holding are right up there with the best giving excellent balance and safety even when pressed unmercifully.

Inside they are spacious and versatile. When the rear seats are folded, the squabs fold down into the floor as the back is pulled forward, making a completely flat load area in seconds. Brilliant.

Equipment includes air conditioning, remote locking, traction control and electric front windows in all, but cheaper models don't get electric mirrors.

: Ford C-Max