Clever packaging – perhaps inspired by the Fiat Multipla – has given Honda a six-seat people carrier that can also carry luggage for all its occupants, making it more practical than similar sized people carriers that have three rows of seats but a tiny boot. The FR-V seats three abreast in two rows, but the middle rear seat also slides back to ensure sufficient leg room.

It means six people plus luggage can be transported in a vehicle taking up no more road space than a typical family hatchback. However, the middle seat in the front isn’t really practical, especially not for regular use. In 2007 the model got the excellent i-CTDi diesel engine it desperately needed while the looks were also subtly tweaked with new headlights and rear light clusters.