Rated by independent crash test experts Euro NCAP as a four-star car, which is a good score for a car of this size. All cars get twin front airbags, while side ‘bags are offered on the Sport (they’re optional on other models). ABS was initially only an option on the entry-level S, which was rectified in 2004 when it became standard on all models. Every car has an alarm, deadlocks and an immobiliser.

When it comes to practicality, the 2’s biggest asset is its shape. The tall body means that it’s versatile and can carry awkwardly-shaped loads. There’s about enough luggage room for a modest weekly shop. The seats have a 60/40 split, plus you can lift the bases up to allow the backs of the seats to fold nearly flat into the floor. With the seats down there is a sizeable and useful load area.