Citroen C8

But while all three cars are of similar size, the C8 makes the stronger first impression ί¿½ thanks to keyfob buttons which open the sliding rear doors to reveal a smart interior packed with equipment.

Climb behind the wheel of our 2.2 HDi, and there's no let-up in the effort Citroen is making to impress. The interior looks modern, with three central dials dominating the sculptured facia. The fluorescent instruments radiate a pale green light, and the effect works well. However, the firm's efforts to stamp authority across the rest of the interior have resulted in a misjudged strip of mock pine which circles the cabin.

But there can be no doubting the car's practicality, and a Nissan Primera-style console creates a flat surface for many of the controls, while beneath is a drinks cooler. The handbrake is on the door side of the driver allowing the front seats to spin 180o and freeing up space for storage.

There are further cubbies under the steering wheel and on the dash, plus a huge glovebox and big door bins. The UK spec hasn't been confirmed yet, but it's likely there will be a choice of six, seven or eight seats, the second row of which all adjust individually, and have head restraints and three-point belts. The seat backs have fold-down trays. Ventilation, door and window controls allow passengers total control over their environment, and all the seats fold flat or can be removed completely to create a huge cargo area. Our only criticism is that knee room in the rear rows is tight. The boot has even more cubbies, a power socket and a low sill for easy loading. External styling is uninspiring, but a clever touch is the side repeaters on the base of the door mirrors, so they're high and visible and don't spoil the body's flanks.

Not only is the C8 practical, but it's also a treat to drive. On sale in Britain from the autumn, the diesel will be the big seller, and from our test run it's easy to see why. Fitted with the C5's acclaimed 2.2 HDi engine, and mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, the car has a smooth ride, handling is good and the steering gives confidence.

With fuel consumption of 37.8mpg, economy is strong, but price will be the key to the MPV's success. Citroen will hope to follow the Xsara Picasso's value-for-money lead, so expect entry-level C8s to cost less than ΂£20,000.