Chrysler Grand Voyager

The Chrysler Grand Voyager is bigger than a Galaxy and better than other enormous MPVs. If you have a big family and want a tidy car-like minibus, then this is it.

• Comfort

  The ride is decently supple and doesn't creak over even pretty big bumps. The steering is well-weighted and the seating position is just about spot on. And that's before we've even got onto the amount of space available...

  

• Performance

  The 'Limited' gets a 2.8-litre CRD turbodiesel with 120kW and 360Nm of torque that punts it to 100km/h in 12.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 160km/h.

  

• Cool

  Parents of other big families will be super-interested and will secretly wish they'd been a bit braver, like you. Which is a form of cool, we suppose.

  

• Quality

  Never going to win plaudits for textures and German levels of fit and finish, but the Voyager feels like it'll last well enough. Built for tough duty, so to speak.

  

• Handling

  Used to be awful to drive, not so anymore. Multi-link rear suspension means the new Grand Voyager rides better, sticks better and manages bumps well. It won't worry a Caterham, but it won't annoy you either.

  

• Practicality

  Ah, the reason for Voyager ownership stands proud. Exceptionally comfy seating for six, with space for seven. Storage bins galore and those rearmost seats fold into the floor brilliantly. There's no better car for a large family than this.

  

• Running costs

  Smaller diesels will get better economy, but fully laden you'll want the 2.8-litre turbo diesel. Expect 9.3L/100km and crashing resale. Buy it as a workhorse and keep it forever. Or at least until the kids leave home.