Used Car of the Year 2008 - MPVs

Winner: Vauxhall Zafira 1.6 Club AC
Year: '07/07
Price: £7525

The Zafira won last year's MPV category, too, and since then it's become even better value.

You can get into an 07-plate model for well under £8000, which is a massive saving on a car that cost £15,300 when new.

The original Zafira was the inspiration for a host of seven-seat MPVs, and this version, introduced in 2005, continues that concept.

Think of the two rear-most seats as best for children or smaller adults, although there's decent room for five in the remaining ones. The rear seats can also be folded into the boot floor, dramatically increasing luggage space.

The drive
Despite its height, the Zafira handles well. There's little body lean through corners, and the steering is direct, with plenty of feedback – you'll have fun driving the Zafira.

The only downside is that the slightly firm ride can become unsettled on really bumpy surfaces.

In a perfect world, you'd want a little more power in a Zafira, especially when it's full of people and their things.

However, the 1.6-litre petrol engine is okay, and will keep down your fuel and insurance bills.

The Club AC trim is reasonably well equipped, with ISOFIX seat anchor points, remote central locking and air-conditioning.

What to look for
Car supermarkets are the place for Zafiras, and there's usually a massive range of ages and specifications.

Most are ex-fleet or lease vehicles, but don't hold that against them. In some cases, you'll be hard-pushed to see any signs of wear and tear. Expect at least 6000 miles on the clock, although some may have done closer to 20,000.

Power: 104bhp
Fuel economy: 39mpg (average)
0-60mph/top speed: 15.2sec/107mph
Insurance: Group 5
CO2: 175g/km
Service: 20,000 miles

Runner up
Ford C-Max 1.6 Zetec '05/05 £4800
Ford Galaxy 1.9 TDI Zetec '05/05 £8875
Citroen Xsara Picasso 1.6 SX '03/03 £2785