SEAT Alhambra

The Alhambra is significantly bigger and heavier than a lot of seven-seat MPVs, so it’s never going to be the cleanest option, but even so, it doesn’t do too bad a job. Most versions will give you an official fuel return of around 40mpg, which is only a little way behind its rivals, cars such as the Citroen Grand C4 Spacetourer, Ford S-Max and Volkswagen Touran. Purchase prices are competitive, too, especially when you consider how much metal and equipment you’re getting for your money. Decent resale values also help put a limit on your long-term running costs.