I MUST have been out of my tiny mind. I had agreed, in a moment of stupidity, to transport a bunch of rugby supporter friends and family to a match 130 miles away on a Friday night.
But then I managed to borrow Hyundai’s excellent Trajet turbo diesel people carrier and I really enjoyed it.
Trajets were cheaper than the rest when new and offered a five year warranty, so the company knows they’re tough.
They are well-built, comfortable, quiet, reasonably powerful, hugely practical seven seaters that are up to most of the more expensive opposition.
There are 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines and obviously the diesel is the one to go for if you can, because of its 38mpg economy.
Trajets went out of production in 2006, so they are all getting a little long in the tooth.
But if you can find one with full service history, you will be onto a winner.
Interior
The high driving position gives a great view all around but the height adjustment for the driver’s seat doesn’t help shorter drivers much.
Seats are in a 2-3-2 layout and there is enough legroom for adults in both rear rows. Equipment in the GSi is excellent.
FAST FACTS
Hyundai Trajet
Price: Pay £2,400 privately for an ’04 04-reg SE, or £3,800 from an independent dealer for an ’06 06-reg GSi
Mechanical: 112bhp, 1,991cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 106mph
0-62mph: 14.8 seconds
Combined mpg: 38
Insurance group: 10
CO2 emissions: 192g/km
Main rival: SEAT Alhambra