THE Chevrolet Orlando is a seven seat MPV without the bulk of larger offerings from other manufacturers.

This makes it easier and less intimidating to drive - especially in town where most are likely to spend their lives.

On the second-hand market, the majority seem to be powered by the 2.0-litre diesel engine with either 130 or 163bhp, but there are also 1.8 and 1.4 turbo petrols, both of which have 140bhp.

The diesel I'll concentrate on here is easily man enough for the weight, offering good performance, but there is turbo lag under 1,800 revs.

Drive is to the front wheels via either six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes and both suit it well.

But the automatic cuts economy over the manual quite considerably because it will not stay in higher gears at low enough speeds.

There is a fair amount of road roar and, although the road holding is good, the ride is unsettled, which is not helped by very low profile tyres.

The rear five seats all fold easily down into the floor to leave a flat load bay and top LTZ spec brings leather, cruise, climate, heated seats, stability control, rear parking sensors, an alarm and six airbags.

The hatch is light, the boot a good size - but only with rear seats down - and there is fair rear legroom.