THE Renault Modus is refined and nippy, practical and smooth and it comes in both normal and long wheelbase versions.
It's based on the Clio so it has all the supermini's positives along with a higher roofline and more space.
There are 1.2, 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines, with power ranging from 75 to 113bhp and four versions of the same smooth and quiet 1.5 DCi turbo diesel, with power ranging from 65 to 106bhp.
With the windows closed, this diesel is almost inaudible - just as quiet as most petrol powered units - but as with the 1.2, there are times when more urge would be useful in the lower power versions.
Performance is fair in them and good in all the others and the Modus handles superbly, taking fast corners much quicker than even a mini-MPV should be able to. It is also one of the safest cars in its class.
The seats are well-shaped and comfortable and the driving position is excellent. It rides well over all surfaces and is very family friendly, with a big boot, loads of cabin storage and decent kit even in lower order cars.
The driving position is good, with enough adjustment for all, and visibility is excellent.