OUR Toyota Corolla Verso has racked up an extra 1,300 miles since its first appearance in Fleet News, and the experience has been trouble free.

I like its versatility - the rear seats can be removed and there are numerous stowage spaces wherever you look - and the handy cup holders set in the top of the dashboard. The build quality is superb, too - you normally have to buy a Volkswagen before you get damped grab handles and interior panels fitting as closely as they do in the new Corolla.

The diesel at 89bhp isn't going to set the world alight, and it's noisy when cold, but it's on a par with the rest of the class (the Xsara Picasso boasts 90bhp) and so far has fared much better than the official combined fuel consumption figure, returning about 47mpg.

Despite its tall stance, the Verso is relatively nimble around corners, the body roll is well contained and the steering allows you to press on with confidence.