Q I HAVE seen a few SsangYong Rodius about recently but know little about them. Do you have any details?

A THE Rodius is the largest people carrier available and is bigger than the Grand Espace and Grand Voyager. This seven-seater has a Mercedes-Benz supplied 162bhp 2. 7-litre diesel engine and has a top speed of 104mph. Although visibility is good, its size means that it can be a bit of a brute in town. The fuel consumption is pleasantly surprising for such a large car, although the depreciation of the Rodius may be a little painful. New prices start from £20,000.

Q I'm looking for an MPV which can double up as a camper van at music festivals over the summer.
Do you have any suggestions?

A The Mercedes-Benz Viano and the Renault Grand Espace can do both, but the ideal vehicle for camping and people carrying is the Volkswagen Caravelle. It is supremely versatile ? all the seats are removable, foldable and can be configured in a number of ways, and the rear bench can even be converted into a double bed.
All models have a table that folds out for working or eating and the car offers enough room for seven passengers and their luggage.

Q I have my eye on a Renault Scenic, but I've been told they're unreliable. Is this true?

A The Scenic is spacious, versatile and affordable but unfortunately there have been plenty of niggling mechanical faults, especially with early models, including leaky sunroofs, battery problems, broken wiper motors and oil leaks.
There are also reports of interior trim squeaks and rattles, indicating a slightly slap-dash build quality. If it is an automatic, also check the gearbox, which is prone to faults. You could try the Mazda Premacy or Toyota Picnic for something similar.

* For more information and advice go to www. parkers. co. uk