The view from the driver’s seat is excellent, with good side and forward vision from the commanding driving position. It’s not so good looking backwards – especially when it’s fully loaded. Only one of the two rear doors has a wash/wipe which hinders visibility. Finding a comfortable driving position is easy though – the seats are multi-adjustable and all models have a height-adjustable steering wheel.

The layout of the dash is a little old fashioned, but with large, chunky, buttons, it’s easy enough to use on the move.

There’s acres of room inside and five-door versions can seat seven in comfort with adequate head and legroom all round – space in the second row of seats is particularly impressive. The seats are good and more than acceptable for longer trips, while later cars come with excellent standard equipment and top models get a user-friendly sat-nav system and heated leather seats.

Although comfortable, Patrol’s is up to rough and tumble use, but it is very noisy and not pleasant for long distance journeys.