Heavily based on the 3 Series, you can assume that BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe safety will be similar – so should be regarded as a five star EuroNCAP car, though it’s unlikely they’ll actually test this particular model. That’s all thanks to a compliment of airbags (six in all) and extensive crash testing by the firm.

There’s plenty to help you avoid an accident in the first place, including a stability control system with traction control and a cruise control with a brake function to ensure you don’t crash into a slowing car ahead while using the system. Low speed manoeuvres are taken care of by an optional camera system with a Surround View while the head-up display allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road – it’ll even display the speed limit by reading the road signs around you.

One of the few areas where it differs from the 3 Series it’s based on, BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe practicality is actually better than the saloon. For a start, despite the deceiving looks, it’s actually a hatchback not a saloon. The boot space (480-litres) is actually the same size as the 3 Series saloon’s, but offers a degree more flexibility thanks to a larger opening.

Plus the rear seats fold down too, either in a 60/40 split or optional 40/20/40 configuration, to liberate a total of 1,300 litres of loadspace. The only compact BMW more practical is the 3 Series Touring.

Otherwise it’s much the same as before, with decent rather than generously sized doorpockets, a small cubby under the armrest in the centre console and a pair of cupholders in front of the gearlever. A boot net helps stop smaller items from rolling around in the boot.