IT doesn't seem that long ago that if you wanted transport for seven people you had to hire a mini bus.
But today you can buy any number of MPVs to provide enough room and comfort for all your family and friends.
The Peugeot 307 SW is no people carrier. It's actually more like an old-fashioned estate, but it can also easily accommodate seven people, plus luggage, with a little bit of seat adjustment.
The five-door is obviously aimed at the family market as space is a key priority. It has a multitude of storage areas inside a well-laid out cabin, including under seat drawers, large door bins and aviation-style tables on the rear of the two front seats.
And the accompanying press blurb states that its full-length roof rails can carry a further 100kg of cycles, skis, surfboards or extra bags. Obviously aimed at those families who are a little bit more active than the rest of us!
Design-wise, the SE 2.0 HDi turbo-diesel is not particularly good-looking, but then what estate car is?
The large elliptical headlamps, chrome grilles and low-slung body do give the motor a distinctive look, but sexy it 'aint.
One striking feature though is the expansive glass roof which spreads from the top of the windscreen, to just above the third row of seats.
A sliding electric blind allows you to control just how much light to let in through the heat-reflective glass ceiling.
And if you are getting too hot under the collar, you can use the automatic climate control system to ensure cabin temperature remains ice-cool.
Driving wise, I found the 307 SW solid and steady if a little unexciting. The HDi engine offers you a reasonable 136bhp which helps you accelerate through the six gears to 62mph in around 11 seconds.
The very economical engine also gets the green seal of approval by providing a very impressive 50mpg (combined).
The car also comes with other nice touches including ESP/traction control - great for quick starts and cornering - a heat-reflective windscreen, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob and smart-looking 16ins Equinox alloy wheels.
The 307 SW range starts at £14,550 for the 1.6 S, but you can expect to pay a few grand more for the extra power of the SE HDi.
A good if not great car - just don't forget your shades.
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 307 SW SE 2.0 HDi 136 5dr
Price: £18,045
Mechanical: 136bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 122mph
0-62mph: 10.8 secs
Combined mpg: 50.4
Insurance group: 10
CO2 emissions: 148g/km
BiK rating: 19%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000; 12yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust