The Jetta is a very safe car, with driver and passenger front and side airbags, curtain airbags, hydraulic brake assistance during emergency stops and an electronic stability control system as standard. The passenger airbag has a deactivation switch so rear-facing child seats can be strapped to the front passenger seat safely. The similar Golf received a maximum five star Euro NCAP rating for adult safety.

Although the Golf may be more practical due to its hatchback tailgate, the Jetta has a very large boot with 527 litres of carrying capacity – not far short of the larger Passat and on par with the Vauxhall Insignia hatchback. The rear seats split and fold, for extra versatility, allowing you to carry large items. However, if you go for a model with a six-CD changer, you’ll find it robs the space under the centre front armrest.

The rest of the cabin ahs good stowage though with a large glovebox, wide door pockets and a twin cupholder which even includes a bottle opener.