CHRYSLER has sold more than 10 million Voyager MPVs worldwide over the past 20 years.
Most of these sales have been in the States where petrol is cheap and diesels make up just over three per cent of entire car market.
In Europe, it's an entirely different ball game. Diesel power has become increasingly popular, especially on the continent, where up to 40 per cent of motors in some EU states are oil-burners.
The UK is catching up fast. Latest figures show that around 28 per cent of new car sales are diesels. And the bigger the motor, the more sense it makes.
Despite the fact that the government taxes diesel fuel to the hilt, it still makes sense to opt for it, especially when it comes to something as big as the Voyager. Chrysler claims you can get up to 36 mpg out of the giant MPV, which is good for the bank balance.
The latest Grand Voyager range makes up for a slight lack of load space when the model was relaunched in 2001, and now it's a real load-lugger, if required.
A full seven seater, the Grand Voyager is versatile, with its removable rear seats allowing countless combinations of seating arrangements. It can be used as a luxury removal van, a taxi, or as real family transport.
Although the Voyager isn't cheap - the 2.5 CRD Limited I tested costs £28,195 - it does come with an impressive array of kit, including anti lock brakes, side airbags, alarm, immobiliser, traction control, electric mirrors and windows, remote central locking, cruise control, CD player and sat nav system.
The safety features are particularly impressive with ABS on all four wheels and more airbags than you can shake a stick at. Both front passengers are protected all round and the other seats feature halo airbags.
The 2-2-3 seat formation also allows for easy access through the middle of the vehicle and the sliding door makes getting in and out od the back easy. And you don't have to slam the door shut. They are powered and self closing.
Captain-style front seats are standard in the first and second row and there is still plenty of space to stretch out in.
The ride is pretty good with most potholes and bumps ironed out well by the suspension. It's a big car, so fast cornering in tight bends isn't recommended, but despite its size it's easy to drive. Just remember how big it is.
Wind and road noise are low and the diesel lump under the bonnet doesn't make too much racket, even at idle.
Power comes from a 141 bhp 2.5 litre turbo diesel engine and it picks up well to a claimed top speed of 115 mph. Acceleration is good for the size of the vehicle, with a zero to 62 mph sprint time of just under 12 seconds.
FAST FACTS
Chrysler Grand Voyager 2.5 CRD Limited
Price: £28,195
Mechanical: 141bhp, 2,499cc 4 cyl turbo-diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 115 mph
0-62mph: 11.9 secs
Combined mpg: 35.9
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 217g/km
BiK rating: 22%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited miles; 7yrs anti-rust