All models are fitted with six airbags and there’s a raft of electronic safety trickery to combat the potentially huge dynamic forces which could otherwise cause things to become unruly. As ever, Mercedes has not fitted deadlocks, maintaining that they are a hindrance in a rescue scenario but an effective alarm and immobiliser are fitted.

The plus side of such length is a cavernous boot that will comfortably swallow three sets of golf clubs. Rear seats will not fold, but this isn’t a car for shifting furniture with.