48: Ford S-Max – Satisfying family carrier

The big Ford MPV didn’t get a dramatic makeover in styling terms when it was renewed in 2016, but it it did find some extra quality for the cabin fittings, some extra comfort for the seats (which really are quite something, at least on standard models) and a little extra space in the second and third rows of seats.

It still has the slightly sloping rear roofline which means that the third row is not as spacious as it could be (if you want a full-size third row, upgrade to the bigger Galaxy), but it’s good to drive, roomy where it counts, and manages not to conform to the old-held idea that owning an MPV is the equivalent of social death. 2.0-litre TDCI engines are the primary choices (and the 150hp is the one to go for) but don’t ignore the excellent 1.5-litre EcoBoost if your mileage is low.

Do ignore the pimped-out Vignale version, which charges extra for blingy chrome and soft leather, but which has seats that are not nearly as comfortable as those of the standard car. And that standard car is quite expensive enough as it is, thanks very much.

Best model: 2.0 TDCI 150 Titanium