The Matiz was awarded one of the lowest Euro NCAP scores of recent years – three stars with one struck through. A struck-through star means there is a risk of serious injury. All models have driver and passenger airbags, five three-point seatbelts, ABS and Isofix child seat mountings – the range-topping SX adds side airbags.

This is the Matiz’s big selling point and although it offers nothing radically different to what’s currently on sale, it’s still remarkably well packaged. The most is made of the interior space, it’s roomier than its compact proportions suggest. Bootspace is good for the size and large enough for a couple of medium suitcases plus the seats split 60:40 and fold flat for extra space.

The tall shape lends itself well to carrying large and bulky items while family-friendly touches – such as an underseat storage tray and large door pockets add to practicality. SE and SX models have seatback pockets and the SX also adds a sunglasses holder.