Renault Scenic

FOR: Fuel economy, smooth ride, top safety ratings AGAINST: Cramped third row, small boot FOR a three grand budget, it’s possible to get hold of a 2010 Grand Scenic that is at least four years newer than either of the other two MPVS here.

There’s a wide range of engines to choose from, but go for the 1.9-litre diesel motor; it’s smooth and powerful, and with claimed 50.4mpg economy, it makes the French MPV by far the cheapest to fuel.

Beyond that, the Renault is very safe, and owners rated it highly in past Driver Power surveys: the Scenic bagged a top-five finish overall in 2013.