• New infotainment system looks great
• Logical, high-quality cabin design
• Optional head-up display available

How is the quality and layout?

Very impressive, and just a little bit different to the opposition. The build quality and choice of trims is first rate, while the technology on offer is up there with the best. The seats and dashboard are finished in materials that wouldn’t be out of place in a much costlier car, and every single touchpoint is a delight.

Although it’s a very different ergonomic experience than its German rivals, it’s leagues ahead of the Mercedes-Benz GLC or Audi Q3 in terms of fit, finish and quality. It’s not perfect, but it’s not far off – of we were really nitpicking, we’d like to see a cover for the cupholders and the glovebox lid isn’t as solid as it might be.

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Infotainment and tech

The large 14.5-inch infotainment screen is easy to navigate via a fat and tactile click wheel on the centre console, as the touchscreen is a bet of a stretch. The little pop-out cubby, also on the centre console, has a very satisfying action – and if you reach down to adjust your seat, a little graphic of what adjustment switch you’re touching comes up on the screen even before you move anything.

The infotainment dial is located too close to the drive selector, and will take some getting used to. The mapping system is basic and doesn’t look great, while the air conditioning controls take a while to get used to, as the haptic ‘buttons’ are small.

Some of the commonly-used features on the infotainment system, such as sat-nav and radio, don’t have shortcut buttons, which makes changing things on the go more of a faff than they need be. However, you’ll probably end up using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto instead – both are included and work seamlessly, although not wirelessly.

Comfort

• Excellent comfort for driver and front-seat passenger
• Rear seats are well-shaped and reasonably roomy
• Massaging seats available on the Luxury models

The GV70 puts in another impressive performance here. The driver’s seat is both cosseting and supportive, and is blessed with a massive range of adjustments. The seat massage function works well, with a number of programmes, including an automatic posture assist when you’re on long journeys.

All the armrests and controls are well placed, with the touchscreen’s distance away from the driver a problem for those who prefer not to use the rotary controller.

Comfort in the rear is also good, with a decent seating position, a suite of air conditioning controls and a reasonable amount of room for a car of this class. It’s ahead of the Audi Q3 and BMW X3 on this score, but lags behind the Volvo XC60.