From the driver’s seat there is little issue with the CL’s dimensions – proximity sensors front and rear eliminate parking and manoeuvring problems (as long as it will fit) and it feels surprisingly wieldy. Front and rear windows can be lowered leaving no pillar in between, which is both elegant to look at and creates a pleasingly airy cabin. Drivers will need to exercise considerable self-restraint in order to keep their licences, as planting a right foot is all that is required to summon up relentless acceleration that’s very addictive.

Manual control of the gearbox is possible via the gearlever or steering wheel mounted buttons.

As you would hope, the comfort levels are exceptional. The seats are electrically multi-adjustable with built-in massage function to give added comfort over long periods. The ride quality is first-class and noise levels at a cruise are well suppressed, although you can certainly hear those enormous powerplants when they’re working hard, but that’s a good thing.

For such a large car, the rear seats are quite limited in terms of legroom, four large adults would be a squeeze.