A few years ago a reader e-mailed asking if I could recommend an eight-seat vehicle for him and his large family. At the time I was stumped, but I wouldn't be now - not after driving the Peugeot Expert Tepee.As you'll already have guessed if you know much about Peugeot commercial vehicles, the Tepee is based on the Expert, which is a very large van. And I'm not joking about the "very large" bit. Even the shorter L1 version extends over 4805mm, while the larger L2 is 5135mm long, or just under 17 feet.It's also 1942mm high, and this presents something of a problem in the sense that the Tepee won't therefore fit in an underground car park. There is, however, the option of pneumatic rear suspension, which lets you lower the car to a more convenient 1894mm.This considerable bulk means that you can fit a great deal inside. In the high-specification form as tested here, the Tepee can seat nine people (in, I may say, MPV-like comfort) and still have room for 770 litres' worth of luggage up to window height, or 1239 litres up to the roof. With all but two of the seats removed, there is so much space that you wouldn't be surprised to see cave paintings along the side, and perhaps the occasional stalagmite.You don't have to go for the full 8/9-seat layout if you think that might be excessive. The Tepee is also available as a 5/6-seater, in either short- or long-wheelbase form.If I said the Tepee was the size of a house you would instantly see that I was exaggerating, but you know what I mean. In case you're concerned that it might also have the driving characteristics of a house, don't worry. You do have to be aware of its considerable size, but it actually rides and handles very well, and even a novice driver could get used to it pretty quickly.Although Peugeot does not issue figures to confirm this, the Tepee is quite quick when fitted with the 120bhp two-litre turbo diesel engine - quick enough to have no problem keeping up with other traffic, at least. The 90bhp 1.6-litre version will inevitably be a bit lethargic, though performance probably won't be an issue for most buyers.The view from the cabin is confidence-inspiringly clear, thanks to the high seating position and the enormous glass area. And despite what you may be led to believe from the Tepee's van origins, it's also comfortable and nicely trimmed.Standard equipment across includes ABS, ESP with anti-roll, traction control, Brake Assist, electric front windows and central locking. Depending on the individual model, other equipment which may be either standard or optional include front passenger and side airbags, air-conditioning, electro-hydraulic power steering, cruise control, rear parking sensors and a hands-free Bluetooth phone kit. Engine 1997cc, 4 cylinders Power 120bhp CO2 194g/km Price £20,795 Details correct at publication date
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