DIESEL engines keep on getting better and Toyota has one of the finest in a seven-seater which costs less than £20,000.
The D-4D engine is used throughout the Toyota range in a variety of forms but in the Verso compact people-mover it sings.
Packed with torque, this version of the D-4D pumps out 134bhp and puts the Verso near the top of the performance charts in its class.
It will accelerate from standstill to 60mph in less then ten seconds but, more importantly, will average almost 45 miles per gallon.
All in all, it makes the Verso T-Spirit one of the most versatile family cars on the market and it more than a match for the likes of the Ford C-Max and Vauxhall Zafira.
Like any Toyota, it is built to last and inside it is quite futuristic with light blue luminescent panels surrounding the central radio and ventilation display panels.
It looks good and it feels good to drive. There is not too much diesel clatter penetrating the cabin which itself is roomy and will seat five with ease.
The extra two seats fold flat into the luggage area floor and can be deployed in less than a minute.
A smart touch is the way the retractable luggage blind can be stowed beneath the boot floor when not in use.
With many a seven seater a common fault has been that when all seats are occupied the blind has to be removed from the vehicle or left on the floor cluttering up the space.
As a five seater the Verso offers 779 litres of cargo room. That's not as generous of some other people movers but realistically is enough for the average family on the move.
However, use the Verso as a seven seater and there is sufficient room only for a few soft bags.
Despite carrying the 'compact' tag the Verso is surprisingly accommodating and although relatively boxy in shape it is quite stylish.
The T-Spirit is almost at the top of the eight model Verso range - outstripped only by the sportier diesel T180 which pumps out a splendid 175bhp.
The Verso began life as a derivative of the Corolla - the world's favourite car. In the current guise as a stand-alone model it is well on course to follow suit as a top seller.
FAST FACTS
Toyota Verso T-Spirit 2.2 D-4D
Price: £17,100
Mechanical: 134bhp, 2,231cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 122mph
0-62mph: 9.4 secs
Combined mpg: 44.8
Insurance group: 9
CO2 emissions: 167g/km
BiK rating: 23%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-r