Ford Galaxy 2.3 Zetec

YOU could almost be forgiven for thinking the road test pages had turned into an MPV benefit recently. We've tested just about every people carrier and mini-MPV model, from the Nissan Almera Tino and Citroen Xsara Picasso to the Volkswagwen Sharan, SEAT Alhambra and Citroen Synergie.

This week we take a closer look at the Volkswagen and SEAT's stablemate, Ford's revamped Galaxy.

On sale from last month, the new Galaxy features new engines, the option of multi-media in-car entertainment, improved safety and security, a much revised interior and improved quality for the interior fixtures and fittings - due to being a badge-engineered Volkswagen Sharan.

It is available in three trim levels; LX, Zetec and Ghia, and with four engines. A 203bhp 2.8-litre V6 tops the engine line-up along with the venerable 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol unit which is now unique to the Galaxy. New to the range is Volkswagen's renowned and excellent turbodiesel unit featuring pumpe duse technology in 90bhp and 115bhp versions.

On test here is the 2.3-litre petrol model in Zetec trim. Priced at ú19,995 on-the-road, the Galaxy features a host of standard equipment including driver and front passenger airbags, ABS brakes, remote control central double locking and immobiliser, alarm, heated windscreen and washer jets, electric front windows and mirrors and a radio/CD player with 10-speakers. Front and rear parking sensors, air conditioning and two power points in the boot complete the equipment list.

To rival the Galaxy, we have chosen the creator of this market segment, Renault's Espace in Alize trim, Fiat's Ulysse EL and the Galaxy's blood brother, the Volkswagen Sharan in 2.0 SE spec.