Although the AMG model hasn’t been tested by Euro NCAP specifically, the regular C-Class has so we’d expect the Mercedes-AMG C63 to manage the same feat and achieve the full five stars. Certainly as standard it’s not exactly lacking in kit, with seven airbags, Attention Assist, collision Prevention Assist Plus, tyre pressure monitoring, adaptive brake lamps, ISOFIX fittings with a child seat recognition sensor, Brake Assist and an Active bonnet.

For just under £1,500 you can add the Driving Assistance Package which includes Blind Spot Assist which has visible warnings in the mirrors if it detects a vehicle in your blind spot, Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, Lane Keep Assist and Pre-Safe system which tensions seatbelts, adjusts the seats and closes the windows or sunroof in the event of an unavoidable accident.

The big benefit for this car is its availability as an estate, which means Mercedes-AMG C63 practicality is far better that that offered by many rivals – which are saloon or coupe models only. Choose the saloon version and you’re treated to 435 litres of loading capacity, but if you want more then the estate has 490 litres with the rear seats in place and 1,510 litres when folded.

Otherwise it’s all traditional C-Class in the cabin, with average-sized storage pockets in the rear, a central armrest with integrated storage and a lidded cubby at the base of the centre console. There’s plenty of leg and headroom for any occupants also, and as a fast practical family car the Mercedes-AMG C63 is near the pinnacle.

The fuel tank is 66 litres in size, so officially you’ll manage around 500 miles between fuel stops. Because of the way the C63 begs to be driven, that’s more likely to occur every 325 miles instead.