This is not a car for speed-demons. The mid-power diesel engine is smooth and punchy enough – you won’t have to work it hard to keep pace with most traffic. Its low-rev pull makes it feel well suited to the car. Avoid the pedestrian 89bhp petrol model. If petrol is a must, it’s best to go for the 118bhp version.

The Partner Tepee is surprisingly fun to drive, with game handling and decent grip. The body leans a lot, though, so make sure your passengers don’t suffer from carsickness before pressing on. Of more relevance, it rides well over most surfaces, so everyone should be comfortable. Potholes are felt too much, however.

Peugeot has done a fine job stopping such a large cabin amplifying noise. It isn’t as quiet as most compact MPVs, but you won’t curse it on a long journey. The engines are hushed, even at high revs, and there’s little wind noise at motorway speeds. Rough surfaces kick up a lot of road noise, though.

The entry-level versions are cheap enough, but the top-end models aren’t such good value – and that’s before you’ve raided the options list. Resale values are no better than average for the class, either. Still, decent economy and emissions mean the Partner Tepee won’t cost much to run, and the optional extras are cheap.

The cabin is more utilitarian than plush, but it’s perfectly acceptable. Take the plastics: they’re hard and shiny, but don’t look like bargain-basement offerings. Everything feels solidly put together. Peugeot’s reliability record is below average.

Most models get just driver and passenger airbags – you’ll need the range-topper for standard side and head ’bags, or pay extra for them on other versions. Stability control is a cost-option, too. Deadlocks, which prevent the doors being opened even if a window is smashed, are fitted, but you’ll have to pay for an alarm.

Despite a steering wheel that adjusts for rake and reach, some drivers will want it to sit at a more upright angle. It’s otherwise easy to get comfortable, and the large windows mean excellent visibility. The controls are simple and easy to use, too, although you’d never call the cabin stylish.

This is where the Partner Tepee excels. There’s plenty of room for five, with headroom being especially generous – even the most outlandish hats will be perfectly safe on top of your passengers’ heads. Sliding rear doors make it easy to get in and out in tight spaces, too. The huge boot will swallow everyone’s luggage, and the low sill makes loading a cinch. Three individual folding/removal rear seats are optional.

The Partner Tepee is not a generously equipped car. It gets remote central locking, electric front windows and a front overhead storage compartment, but that’s it. It’s much better to go for the mid-spec S, which adds a height-adjustable driver’s seat, a carpeted boot, electric door mirrors, extra storage space and the choice of more engines. Top-end Outdoor models gain alloy wheels, air-conditioning, raised suspension and roof bars.