Honda FRV 1.8 i-VTEC

I have driven 1500 effortless miles in a month in my 1.8 petrol FRV, averaging 40mpg on long 70mph journeys, though you won't get those figures driving aggressively. Around town sees figures fall to mid 30's, but neither seems to vary much driving solo or with 3 passengers and a full boot.

It is a very practical and comfortable family vehicle and if you don't fill it with obese passengers you can certainly get 6 '12 stone 6 footers' and travel a decent distance with a fair level of comfort. It is a interesting proposition given it is no longer than a Focus. Technically it is a little wider, but I cannot say I have noticed it on the road.

Likes - good sound system, central front armrest (6th seat folded over), flat-folding rear seats, lots of secret storage space to wedge small things in under rear seats. 6th gear to aid economy.

Dislikes - a bit unforgiving over big potholes and speed humps but otherwise a very driveable MPV and very stable round sharp corners. Boot not officially as big as some (440 litres), but still decent all round storage space, and flexible tonneau cover does make for easily taking as much luggage as a Mondeo. Hard to get your hands on a good one so move fast.

Would absolutely recommend this as a high quality family friendly second hand purchase, especially if you no longer need to trail around prams and travel cots which always take up a huge amount of bootspace.

PROS. Not a bad looking car which has 3 full-size rear seats which is perfect for young kids needing car seats. The 3 seats at the front works well although the middle one is only big enough for a kid. Gear stick mounting is excellent. Rear seats fold flat in an instance although head rests and lack of rear seat travel can make it a slight challenge.

CONS. VTEC performance is poor. Windscreen support bars are wide and restrict view. Auto wiper setting is useless. Boot cover is poorly designed and confined to the garage (with the rear seat head rests).

OVERALL. I would recommend the FRV although go for the CDTI if you can.