Ford B-Max safety shouldn’t pose too much of an issue because the Blue Oval has spent a lot of time and money on the structure of the car. Although it hasn’t been crash tested by Euro NCAP yet many other Ford models have performed extremely well and we expect it to follow suit. This model is expected to achieve five stars when crash tested. All models feature side, knee and curtain airbags, stability control with electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist with hill start assist and tyre pressure warning.

Hill start assist is not available with the 1.4-litre petrol engine.

The obvious advantage when considering Ford B-Max practicality is its clever rear doors. While others open in a conventional style, the Ford’s entire side panel – including the B pillar – slides backwards to allow excellent access to the rear seats. This is going to appeal to Motability customers, for whom good access to the back is an essential trait in any car.

You can fit two full-sized adults in the back, but three will be a real squeeze. Headroom is stratospheric whether in the front or the back. The boot capacity of 318 litres is complemented by a false floor which makes it possible to store flat packages. There’s three cup holders in total – one in the back and two in the front. Although there are no door pockets in the rear, there’s a net behind the driver’s seat to store small items.