KANGOO may be an odd name for a vehicle but if versatility is what you're looking Renault's mid-size MPV is well worth a look.
Okay, it may look like something that Postman Pat would feel at home in but there's no doubting it's a bit of a bargain with prices starting at less than ten grand.
It's a fun car, but more than that it's very practical with lots of load space, cubby-holes everywhere and surprisingly good on the road.
It was revised in 2003 and again last August with new interior trim, new frugal engines and a choice of new colours.
Driving the 1.5 Expression dCi 84bhp five-door manual I got quite attached to the quirky French motor. It's a bit van-like from the outside but surprisingly car-like to drive.
It does have a bit of body roll in tight bends due to its high sides, but it's nothing to get upset about.
French suspensions are renowned for their quality and the Kangoo irons out any major bumps.It is also well built and I didn't detect any major rattles or annoying squeaks.
The new 84bhp turbo diesel engine fitted to the Kangoo offers plenty of power with good mid-range pull.
I managed to get around 50mpg, and quite a few miles were completed at motorway speed.
There was a bit of enigne noise when I pushed it up through its five gears but, when cruising, the Kangoo is reasonably quiet.
I didn't get much wind or road noise either which is a sign of good panel fit, improved soundproofing and the excellent build quality.
The driving position in the Kangoo isn't bad despite there being no steering wheel or driver's seat height adjustment.
Because you're sitting reasonably high, with pretty large screen and side windows, the all-round visibility is good.
Cabin space is a bonus with a light and airy feeling with plenty of head and leg room for everyone onboard.
With sliding rear doors and a high rising tailgate access to the load space and rear seats is easy.
The Kangoo Expression also benefits from having additional overhead parcel shelves and lockers for added storage space and with the split-folding rear seats down its load areas is a very useful 2,600 litres.
Equipment on the Kangoo Expression is good with one-touch electric windows, heated electric door mirrors, CD, driver and front passenger airbags, remote central locking, anti-lock brakes, fog lamps, power assisted steering, see-me-home lights, alloy wheels and trip computer.
In all, the Kangoo offers a versatile package for people who enjoy an active lifestyle and aren't too bothered about image.
FAST FACTS
Renault Kangoo Expression 1.5 dCi 84 5dr
Price: £11,445
Mechanical: 84bhp, 1,461cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox.
Max speed: 98mph
0-62mph: 11.3 secs
Combined mpg: 53.3
Insurance group: 4
CO2 emissions: 139g/km
BiK rating: 15%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust