The B-Class doesn’t have a Euro NCAP crash test rating yet, but the smaller A-Class received the maximum five stars. All cars are fitted with an electronic stability programme – an important feature in helping control the car in a skid – and six airbags are standard. Rear side airbags are optional, while the rear seats have Isofix mounting points for child seats.

The standard steer control system, should also help prevent crashes.

It misses out on a maximum score here because a major selling point of its interior – the Easy-Vario removable rear seatbacks and front passenger seat – is a £205 option. Even without this feature, the B-class is still very useful. The boot has a double layer floor which – at its highest setting – creates a flat surface between the boot and the folded rear seats.

At its lowest position it offers a more generous boot compartment – 506 litres while maximum luggage capacity is 2,205 litres. There’s also no seven-seat option, unlike many other people carriers.