Ford Focus C-MAX TDCi Zetec

Under the bulky body lies the platform of the Volvo S40 and next-generation Focus, and as a result it has excellent balance, with a firm yet subtle ride, responsive steering and impressive levels of grip. Add in a refined, eager 2.0-litre engine, co-developed with Peugeot, and a light, positive gearbox, and the newcomer makes rivals such as the Renault Scenic and Citroen Picasso feel clumsy.

But is the C-Max practical? Well, it's only a five-seater, unlike the VW Touran and Vauxhall Zafira. Yet if you don't need room for seven the Ford is perfectly adequate. There's lots of legroom, headroom and luggage space, and it's comfortable, too. The driver's seat is supportive and widely adjustable, and the switchgear is all well placed and easy to use.

So while the C-Max might not move mountains in terms of design, it's streets ahead on the road. And to the enthusiastic motorist with a demanding family, that's likely to be the best news in years.