Six different engines are offered, but lose the wimpy 90bhp diesel and the extravagant choice of automatic 3.0 V6, and you’re left with the real choices – 1.8 or 2.0 petrols and 2.0 (110bhp) and 2.2 diesels. These four are adequate performers.

A menagerie of 19 integrated computers control the revolutionary unique Hydractive 3 air suspensions system and a multitude of driving aids. Yes, it’s smooth and comfortable, and the handling is neat enough, but C5 doesn’t compare to the pure mechanicals of the class performers like Mondeo. Notchy gearchange.