THE Renault Scenic and Citroen Picasso seem to be the top sellers in the compact people carrier class from what I see on the roads.

But a good family holdall which is not as well-known is the Mitsubishi Space Star.

It's not as accomplished as the Scenic but it does come with the Japanese company's legendary reliability.

There are 1.3, 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol engines to choose from, with 84, 97 and 121bhp.

There is also a 1.9DiD turbo diesel, which is probably the best choice for its combination of performance and economy.

It has 115bhp and will better 50mpg with care, but it is more sought after and more expensive.

The 1.3 petrol is fairly slow but it is the most economical of the petrol models.

The 1.6 is obviously quicker, but also uses more petrol and the last series 1.8 is quicker again but still manages 34mpg.

Interior

It is family friendly, with rear seats which can recline and slide for more or less legroom, good storage and a comfortable ride.

The gearchange is a delight and the clutch as light as a feather. Excellent power steering makes it a very easy car to manoeuvre in tight spaces and the level of kit is good.

FAST FACTS

Mitsubishi Space Star

Price: Pay about £1,875 for an '03 53-reg Mirage or £2,300 for an '04 54-reg Equippe

Mechanical: 115bhp, 1,870cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 118mph

0-62mph: 10 seconds

Combined mpg: 51

Insurance group: 15

CO2 emissions: 146g/km

Main rival: Citroen Picasso