Even though the people carrier is itself a niche market, there are so many of them now that they've become mainstream and synonymous with boring family transport. But, the people carrier is still so very good at being family transport that it's hard to overlook - if driving excitement isn't your thing.
The new Scenic looks sharper than ever, is better to drive than ever, uses its space more cleverly than... you get the picture. It's the best yet, and few cars are as handy for moving kids and buggies to and fro as the Renault, while at the same time being completely unintimidating to drive and non-offensive to the general public. There are also so many engine and trim options that it's easy to find something to suit any pocket too.
If the Renault's not quite your bag, most of the mainstream makers have their own take on the compact MPV, like Toyota's Verso, which is more expensive and not as good. Still, choice is a wonderful thing.