Renault Modus

   The Renault Modus is produced since 2004. Sometimes it is also considered as a Mini MPV.

   There are three petrol and three diesel engines developed for this car. The entry-level 1.5-liter diesel should be avoided. However the higher-powered diesels are punchy. It might seem, that the 1.2-liter petrol unit is underpowered, however it has a strong mid-range pull and delivers enough power. The 1.4-liter engine delivers extra pull.

   The new Renault Modus handles easily. It's steering is light and turning circle is small. Car has a decent grip and can hold it's own on the motorways. Ride is comfortable enough, but there is excessive body lean in the corners.

   Noise isolation differs from model to model. Petrol engines except the 1.2-liter unit are smooth, but the diesels are noisy. Wind and road noises are well kept away on most models.

   The Renault Modus is competitively priced, however it might look expensive next to some of it's rivals, particularly Korean cars, offering similar levels of equipment. The strong side of Modus is a cheap servicing with an interval of 30 000 kilometers (18 000 miles) and low fuel consumption. There should be demand for it after several years, so residual values should be respectable. Most of it's mechanical components are similar to Megane and Clio, so there should be no concerns about the reliability.

   The small Modus has a sturdy and stylish interior, but cheaper models use some less appealing plastic. The dashboard is stylish, but it's numbers and signs are too small to read at a glance.

   Driver's position is not perfect, but it is comfortable enough. The steering wheel has adjustments for height only. High MPV-like driving position gives a good all-round visibility.

   There is plenty of space for the front passengers, but the rear leagroom is restricted. Yet the headroom is generous. Access to the car is good thanks to large doors. Only a higher-spec models come with a split-folding rear seats, but the boot is relatively spacious.

   Even the entry models come with four airbags as standard, while most are fitted with six. This is one of the reason why the Renault Modus received a maximum 5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating. Anti-lock brakes deliver safe but strong stopping power. Every model comes with deadlocks to deter thieves.

   The new Modus is available in four trim levels. Only the entry-level cars miss out air conditioning, curtain airbags, heated seats and glass sunroof. All versions come with a CD player, remote central locking and electric front windows.

   Production of the Renault Modus still continues.

   Advantages: The Renault Modus comes well equipped and has a good all-round visibility.

   Disadvantages: Rear seats are cramped. It is also expensive comparing with equally equipped small budget cars.

   Verdict: Comfortable only for two.

   Also consider: Honda Jazz, Peugeot 1007.