THE large Fiat Ulysse people carrier was built in the same factory as the Citroen Synergie and the Peugeot 807.

But it didn't sell in big numbers so Fiat discontuinued it in 2005.

It uses the French 110bhp diesel engine which is excellent, giving 35 miles per gallon with care.

There was also a 2.2-litre diesel with 130bhp and a 2.0-litre petrol with 136bhp.

Best bet is the 2.0-litre diesel but if you don't do too many miles, the petrols will be cheaper and are likely to have lower mileage.

Both 2.0-litre diesel and petrol models have decent performance and the diesel's economy is excellent considering it is about as aerodynamic as a garden shed.

The ride is comfortable and the handling quite acceptable, but the driving position is not as car-like as in some others.

This one really is, along with its siblings, every bit as good as the Ford Galaxy but make sure you get one with service history.

Equipment includes everything most families would want with good storage around the cabin.

It has seven individual seats and the front pair swivel to face the rear. Each of the five seats in the back can be fairly easily unhooked but their weight makes this a hefty task not to be undertaken lightly.