The Insignia hatchback was awarded a maximum five star rating by Euro NCAP – and this still applies in the 2009 rating scheme which is a new overall rating covering not only adult occupant safety, but also child and pedestrian safety along with a rear impact whiplash test in one. The Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer safety systems should be every bit as safe, and the car has an excellent range of safety features as standard.

All cars get six airbags, anti-lock brakes, Isofix child seat anchor points, an electronic stability programme, traction control and three-point seatbelts all round.

Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls are fitted to every model and adaptive forward lighting is fitted to top models (optional on others). This feature cleverly changes how the headlights work, according to the road and weather conditions. The headlights also turn in the same direction as a corner and can adapt to rainy or snowy conditions.

After the refresh in 2013 the Sports Tourer got another wave of safety upgrades. Adaptive Forward Lighting Plus was introduced, and changes the headlight beam based on the weather and driving conditions. It also automatically toggles the main beam on and off.

You get adaptive cruise control too, and a list of other systems such as lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, automatic parking and many other radar-based features to avoid hitting – or being hit by – other traffic.

The Sports Tourer is competitive for space with other estates (with the rear seats in place), but loses out to some with the rear seats folded, which is a shame because the Vectra it replaces was class-leading. However, the wide tailgate does help make it a little easier to load the car. SE and Elite models come with an electrically operated tailgate and there is an intermediate three-quarter stopping point before fully opening to avoid damage against low ceilings in multi-storey car parks.

A boot organiser pack is available as an option across the range, to help keep items secure in the luggage compartment.