Vauxhall Zafira 2.0 DTi Elegance – 7,221 miles

During its six-month stay here, the car has proved a useful load and people lugger but since I've been in possession of the keys, I can't say it has been one of my favourite cars.

I can see that it would be ideal for fleets. With robust interior trim, fold-flat seats for maximum cargo area, being the only vehicle in its class to do away with the need to remove seats for larger loads, plus good fuel economy (40mpg+ at my last look) it is a fine performer.

But when it comes to driver and passenger comfort, the complaints start. Having been relegated to the back seat as a passenger to be with my new-born daughter, I have discovered that the ride is more uncomfortable than in the front.

Not only is the area a tangle of seatbelts and fastenings, but the seats are uncomfortable too, and the air conditioning does not percolate through from the front of the car. The rear suspension did not seem to be working at all as we bumped across country recently on local B roads.

This almost caused a row between my husband and myself as I was convinced he was testing the stability of the baby seat by trying to shake it loose.

He insisted he was going at the normal speed. But if a fleet was intending to use a Zafira as more than an occasional people carrier, I would recommend the fleet manager testing out the back seat first.

Mind you, all in all, the Zafira has been useful. It coped with all of our needs, from people transporter, to light commercial shifter of DIY 'stuff'. But given the choice, I wouldn't choose the Zafira above the stylish Peugeot 307 SW/Estate or the quirky but cute Toyota Corolla Verso.

Tax payable (22%): £70.19