• Functional but well screwed together inside
• Infotainment and smartphone integration finnicky
• Some scratchy, hollow-sounding plastics

How is the quality and layout?

Instrumentation is taken care of by a pair of analogue dials for speed and revs, with a small 3.5-inch digital display between them. This shows a variety of information, but looks a little basic compared to the larger, more colourful displays with greater customisation options found in pricier rivals.

The technology and equipment is spot on for the money and the wide use of semi-good quality plastics and trim materials is to be welcomed.

There are small touches that really make a difference, such as fabric inserts on the dashboard (shame they don’t extend to the doors, though). The steering wheel, heating controls and other touch points are all nice to touch and the overall ambience is lifted by the use of contrasting orange stitching on the seats. Small touches, but they really do elevate the interior.

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Infotainment and tech

Base spec models get a smartphone dock along with a DAB radio and Bluetooth, while mid and top-spec cars get a 8.0-inch touchscreen-based infotainment system that makes controlling the audio far easier. They also get a smartphone mount with a nearby USB which is a nice touch.

As well as support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto you now have the option of wireless connection for these systems. In addition you get sat-nav and DAB radio in a system that’s quick and easy to use.

Be aware that getting your phone working with it could be troublesome. In his long-term test, Richard Kilpatrick found that CarPlay took time to hook up: ‘For the first couple of weeks I any attempt to use the iPhone for nav or music resulted in three minutes of success, then disconnected. I tried the original Apple cable, three known-good and two new purchased ones before solving the issue by buying an MFI wire (made for i-things).’

Comfort

• High driving position
• Easy to get in and out of
• Seats are average

The Stepway has a decent driving position with all models receiving a height and reach adjustable steering wheel and a height adjustable driver’s seat. The pedals line up nicely with the seat and steering wheel, so getting a comfortable driving position isn’t too tricky.

You can’t get adjustable lumbar support on any version, although that’s not uncommon in small cars such as this. The seats are at least comfortable and supportive, offering average side and lower back support for long distances.