On the safety front, the Splash scored four out five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests along with three stars for child safety. All models get ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, ESP stability control, front, side and curtain airbags, height adjustable three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, Isofix child seat anchor points and side impact protection beams.

For security, an immobiliser and deadlocks are fitted as standard.

Family buyers will find the boot plenty big enough for a week’s worth of shopping, plus the versatile rear seats split and fold down for extra storage. The Splash’s interior design is simple, functional and easy to live with. There are plenty of thoughtful touches for keeping items safe, including a moderately-sized glovebox and a useful flip-up storage tray on the dashboard for mobiles, keys and coins.

The front door pockets are slim but ideal for cans and small bottles.