The C4 was awarded the maximum five-star score from crash-test experts Euro NCAP, which puts it at the top of its class. All cars have six airbags as standard (the fixed steering wheel means that the driver’s airbag is a special design that is said to give better protection), ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist and seatbelt pre-tensioners.

As for security, the C4 has been awarded five stars from security experts Thatcham and the laminated glass is tough enough to stop a determined thief from breaking in for 30 seconds.

The 320-litre boot is a decent size but lags behind similar cars including the Vauxhall Astra and SEAT Leon. It’s easy to access thanks to a large tailgate while a clever boot divider pulls out of the boot sill and makes the best use of the space. The glovebox isn’t very big, but is air conditioned, which makes it ideal for keeping drinks cool in summer.

Stowage is a bit of a contradiction though – there are plenty of cubbyholes but no real space to put anything. The problem is they are not particularly well thought out or useful – annoyingly most are too small and fairly pointless.