Citroen C8 Estate 2003 - Present

If you're after a value-packed full-size MPV, then C8 is well worth a look. Great value with an attractive interior and stacks of comfort features. Top-of-the range models are handsomely equipped, even by Citroën's usual high standards. It shares its underpinnings and looks with the Fiat Ulysse and Peugeot 807, but it's the Citroën that's the best value.

Through clever engineering it rarely feels as big as it is, with nicely weighted steering and limited body roll considering the C8's height. Ride is comfortable most of the time although it can be shown up by bumps and poor surfaces at lower speeds. Brakes are impressive for such a heavy vehicle, and an electronic stability programme comes as standard on 2.2-litre models

2.0-litre petrol and diesel models barely offer adequate performance. Driving requires a lot of work to get any reasonably level of performance from the MPV. The 130bhp 2.2 HDi and 160bhp 2.2-litre petrol engines make for more relaxed transport but still don't present many thirills. Automatic transmission offered with the 2.0 HDi, although this really takes the edge off what performance is available. The 2.0-litre diesel is a punchy and powerful unit with the six-speed gearbox. It's at home on the motorway where it cruises easily. The dash-mounted manual gearshift looks odd, but is easy to use.

All engines offer good refinement and wind noise is minimal. Air conditioning and electric windows come as standard. Passengers front and back have plenty of room and the interior is impressively airy. Electrically assisted sliding passenger doors are available from mid-spec SX trim upwards. SX also features air con vents for all three rows of seats.

Seven can be seated in comfort with individual seats. However, the seats are heavy making them awkward to remove and difficult to store. However once removed, there's a huge amount of space and the C8 is up to any task from lugging from transporting a new washing machine to moving a chest of draws. With all seven in place, luggage space is somewhat limited though. The cabin has loads of storage boxes. In the front alone there is a large glovebox, two pop-up dash boxes and large door bins.

With Citroens pricing options and offers the C8 will take some beating in the value for money stakes.

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