The dash and interior design is straightforward and the main controls are neatly laid out. However, some of the plastics such as those of the centre console and handbrake handle scratch easily too – this car may have leather but it’s still a budget proposition. The rear screen is rather shallow and positioned high up but this doesn’t seem to present a visibility problem.

Top of the range SX models have tinted rear windows, which add security and sun protection, but mean you have to rely on the wing mirrors when reversing at night as everything else is blacked out.

There’s room for five adults with plenty of headroom, although legroom is not particularly generous in either the front or the back. The front seats offer good support and plenty of adjustment though. The rugged bodywork may look tough but it generates wind noise and with a rather noisy diesel engine there’s a fair racket at motorway speeds. However, facelifted models from 2007 come with extra soundproofing which improves things somewhat.

There’s no change to the poor ride quality though and potholes and bumps send rattles through the cabin.