THE Tourneo Courier is Ford's alternative to the typical family SUV following its decision to stop producing the B-MAX.

This van-derived MPV is based on the smallest Transit, the Courier, which in turn is based on the previous generation Fiesta.

It is designed to take on opposition like the Citroen Berlingo but with prices starting at £14,815 it is considerably cheaper although the entry-level specification is basic.

The Tourneo is available with either a 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine or a frugal 1.5-litre diesel both mated to a six-speed gearbox.

It may look boxy and rather dull but as it sits on a Fiesta chassis it is still a decent drive and offers bags of room inside.

Steel wheels are standard and Zetec is the sole trim level, but you can pay extra for 15-inch alloy wheels, parking sensors and an improved touchscreen infotainment system. Standard specification includes front electric windows, a Quickclear windscreen, air conditioning and digital radio.

The cabin is neat and tidy with stacks ofstorage, leg and headroom and the accent is on practicality rather than luxury.

The substantial boot can be increased by collapsing the 60:40 split rear seats which can then be folded up to provide a flat load space.

It is easy to find a good driving position with excellent visibility thanks to the large front windscreen and comfortable seats.

Sliding rear doors make access easy for people with young families that require child seats and Isofix mountings are standard.

It may not be pretty to look at but the Tourneo Courier is very practical and functional as well as being economical to run.

I sampled it in diesel form and it returned almost 50mpg during mixed driving conditions with emissions of 117g/km.

The 1.5-litre produces 100ps and delivers decent grunt with top speed being 109mph and the sprint to 62mph taking 13.4 seconds.

That will be quick enough for most buyers who don't want to move up to an SUVand it cruises smoothly at motorway speeds and is just as happy in town or on country roads.