BEAUTY is in the eye of the beholder and I found the original Fiat Multipla pretty ugly.

You may not agree of course and also the later models were given a more mainstream look.

All of them are hugely practical six seat people carriers with a big boot, very practical and much more fun to drive than most MPVs thanks to a wide track that gives very good road holding and handling.

The first Mazda5 is the only one that beats it for driving enjoyment - and that's only a five seater.

Multiplas have six seats in two rows of three and a gearlever that grows out of the dashboard, leaving a flat floor.

The clutch is light, power steering direct and positive and ride supple.

Engines are 1.6 105bhp petrol, and a 1.9 turbo diesel with 105 to 120bhp. Performance is about the same in each but diesel economy is 10mpg better.

There is decent space for three in the front but the boot would be hard pressed to hold bags for six if they all wanted to go away together.

Base models are well equipped, with height adjustable steering wheel and driver's seat, electric mirrors and twin airbags.

The Eleganza adds climate control, remote locking, alarm, parking sensors, alloys and remote audio control. Service history is a must.