The petrol line-up includes a 108bhp 1.6, a 128bhp 1.4 turbo and a 141bhp 2.0-litre that comes with a CVT auto gearbox. Alternatively, there are five diesel options: 85bhp and 105bhp 1.5s, a 128bhp 1.9 and a 2.0-litre that produces 158bhp in six-speed manual form or 148bhp with an auto ’box. The 1.4 turbo petrol and 1.9 diesel both really impress because they’re strong, yet frugal.

You won’t find a more refined car in the MPV class. There’s some wind noise on the motorway, but it’s less than you get in most rivals and road noise is really well isolated. The engines are pretty hushed, too, especially the excellent 1.4-litre turbo.

The five-seat Scenic is just 216mm (8.5in) shorter than the seven-seat Grand model, so there’s loads of space inside. The three individual second-row seats slide back and forth so you can trade some legroom for extra boot space. However, the Scenic isn’t as user-friendly as some rivals because the seats tumble forward and then lift out instead of folding flat into the floor.

Entry-level Extreme cars come with air-conditioning, front electric windows and an MP3 connection, but we’d probably upgrade to Expression trim because this brings the fancy screen, rear electric windows and a folding passenger’s seat. Dynamique models have alloy wheels, cruise control, sat-nav and Bluetooth, while Privilege trim adds climate control, part-leather upholstery and parking sensors.