Six appeal

FIVE or seven, we're familiar with, but six is a proposition that many are not often faced with. Cars with six seats are rare, and it is safe to say you can't think of more than six such models offhand. The Honda Edix from the mid-2000s is one of them. This MPV was boxy but stylish, and it fits three passengers across two rows. The new Honda Jade RS is also a six-seater but instead of 3-3, it has a 2-2-2 configuration. And if you want further confirmation that the Jade is not the Edix's successor - spiritual or otherwise - you only have to look at its sporty styling, which means it is the replacement of the Stream compact MPV instead.

The Jade has the sleek profile of a sports tourer, with a low belt line and big wheels. Its interior is even more distinctive. The second row is a pair of captain seats with an aisle in between. For a cosier juxtaposition, they can also be merged laterally.

Behind them are two individual seats meant for children or smaller adults but can also accommodate taller occupants, thanks to a cleverly designed tailgate hinged deep into the roof for better headroom.