DESPITE its top-heavy appearance from some angles, Citroen's C4 Picasso MPV has excellent road holding and handling combined with a very comfortable ride.

It might not be very pretty to some eyes, but as practical, reasonable family transport, it's hard to fault.

The digital instruments work well and the driver has plenty of seat and column adjustment for a comfortable driving position.

Engines are 1.7 and 2.0-litre petrol with 127 or 143bhp and the excellent diesels are 1.6 110bhp or a 2.0-litre with 138bhp.

As well as a six-speed manual there is a four speed automatic gearbox which can also be used as a clutchless manual but takes a lot of getting used to.

The Picasso, in manual or auto forms, is easy to drive and my pick of the bunch would be the 1.6 diesel manual which is quick responsive and frugal.

It's willing and has plenty of power giving good acceleration.

There is lots of storage and a huge boot with all the seats in place and equipment is excellent across the range.

The wide, tall body is hugely practical, with three individual sliding rear seats, which can also be folded or with difficulty, taken out.