Renault Modus 1.5 dCi 86 Initiale

Our new long-term Renault Modus has been with us for a couple of weeks, yet the supermini-MPV has already impressed with its versatility and logical design... not to mention its array of clever gadgets and gizmos.

Our model is the top-of-the-range Initiale, which has various extras that are optional on lesser variants. Yet even the most basic Modus has plenty to recommend it - not least its adaptable rear seats, central dash display and smart storage solutions, such as the 'Stay Put' cubby, revealed by lifting the passenger chair squab.

To that, the Initiale adds a dual-opening tailgate called a Boot Chute, plus 16-inch alloys, leather trim, climate and cruise control and xenon headlamps with cornering lights. Extras include a luggage net, rear sunblinds and a six-disc CD changer.

After the thirsty Subaru Forester I ran previously, the 39.6mpg averaged by the Renault's 1.5-litre diesel is most welcome. The French model is far smaller, too, and proves handy around town. However, I'm not too keen on the Modus's styling. Various colleagues feel the same way; 'ugly' and 'mumsy' are two of the more polite adjectives I've heard used to describe the car! I'm also surprised to see that the light interior trim is already starting to gather the dirt.

Still, we're scheduled to have the Renault on our fleet for a year, so that will give us plenty of time to get used to its looks - and ample opportunity to make full use of its many attributes.