THE Renault Modus mini MPV was based on the Clio during it's eight year run from 2004 to 2012, so it has all the supermini's positive points along with that higher roofline and more interior space.

It's refined and nippy, practical and smooth, and it comes in both normal and extra space long wheelbase versions.

Engines in the petrol range start with a gutless and avoidable 1.2 with just 75bhp, followed by a 1.4 with 98 that still feels pretty slow.

Next up is a turbo version of the 1.2 that is the pick of the bunch, with 100bhp and decent pulling power, and the range topping earlier models have a 1.6 with 111bhp that is smooth and quiet.

There are also three versions of the well-known Renault 1.5 diesel and if you do higher mileage, these would be the ones to go for.

It's a very smooth and quiet unit, and the power choice is 68, 80 or 88bhp. The 68bhp version is very slow, and since all are as economical as each other, capable of 60 miles per gallon, I would definitely go for the 80 or the 88.

Performance is best in the 1.2TCe, the 1.6 and the 88bhp diesel of course, and the 1.2 is capable of 47mpg.

The Modus handles superbly, taking fast corners much quicker than any MPV should be able to, but the steering gives little feedback, which is a shame.

It was one of the safest cars in its class when tested, which means it is still well up with today's competition.

The seats are well-shaped and comfortable and the driving position is excellent. It rides well over all surfaces and is family friendly, with a big boot and decent cabin storage.

There is space for four adults to ride in comfort and the rear bench seats has a slider to give more legroom at the expense of boot space.

Trims start with Authentique and these have four airbags, electric front windows, trip computer, remote locking, under-floor storage and emergency brake assist. Expression adds CD player in lieu of cassette, electric heated mirrors and a luggage cover, while Dynamique has alloys and front fog lamps, and Privilege gets air con, electric rear windows, alarm, automatic lights and wipers and cornering lights.

Pay about £2,250 for an '11 11-reg 1.2 Expression with air con, or £2,440 for a '12 12-reg 1.5 diesel Dynamique.