A spacious and affordable small family estate with a well-built cabin. It handles well and is available with some fine engines. The practical rear-end is neatly styled, too.

The range kicks off with 99- and 108bhp 1.6-litre petrol engines, a strong 128bhp 1.4 turbo. A 138bhp 2.0-litre with a CVT auto gearbox, and a 178bhp 2.0-litre turbo complete the petrol line-up. Diesel buyers can have 85- and 105bhp 1.5-litre units, or there’s a 1.9 with a more useful 128bhp. Finally, Renault offers two 2.0-litre diesel options – a 148bhp auto and a 158bhp manual.

The entry-level Expression model comes with air-conditioning and front and rear electric windows, but you have to upgrade to Dynamique trim to get alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers, an MP3 connection and cruise control, along with sat-nav. Range-topping Privilege cars also feature dual-zone climate control, parking sensors and electric folding door mirrors.

Renault is proud of its safety record, and the Megane Sport Tourer doesn’t let the side down. Every model comes with stability control and front, side and curtain airbags. What’s more, the car should perform well in a collision because its hatchback sister was awarded a maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests. Deadlocks and a fully integrated stereo help to protect against thieves.