Before the Laguna’s facelift in 2005, the lower-end engines struggled a little and weren’t up to the task of powering a reasonably heavy car. However, now the 1.6- and 1.8-litre engines have been ditched, the 2.0-litre turbo unit offers a superb performance and the sporty GT model is even better. The diesel engines are equally as impressive and are available in 1.9 and 2.2-litres, in a variety of outputs.

A 175bhp model was added in 2006, the most powerful 2.0-litre diesel engine currently available.

An already confident handler on corners, the 2005 enhancement has increased roll stiffness and deployed more efficient damping in order to provide a better driving experience. The Laguna is by no means a sports car, and the poor turning circle highlights this fact, although the GT model does offer a sportier configuration, with uprated suspension and lower ride heights.