SEAT's super-sized version of its midi people carrier, the Altea, debuts in Britain next January, priced from £12,995.

The XL variants - they are 18.5cms longer than standard models to provide more luggage space - come with the same excellent choice of engines, from 1.6-litre petrol to 2.0-litre turbo diesel.

Standard equipment will include air conditioning, an MP3 compatible CD player with Aux-In socket (for iPod or other auxiliary device connection), electric front windows, six airbags, and remote central locking.