Four-cylinder models will be far cheaper to run than six-cylinder models and the list price of the 150bhp diesel is quite attractive. Although depreciation will be steeper than on premium rivals, the Laguna is a less expensive car to buy in the first place, so the amount of cash lost shouldn’t be any more excessive than on something with a posher badge.

Renault servicing is good value but the dealers have a second-rate reputation for customer care.

Diesel models have low emissions, with even the potent 3.0 V6 dCi auto recording comfortably less than 200g/km. It is likely that the most popular cars will be the greener models by virtue of their lower fuel consumption – the 2.0 dCi 150 averages 47mpg.

Renault has sought to improve reliability and early indications on the Laguna are that it has improved. We would be happy to increase the rating in due course as a result of positive feedback from owners.