Hyundai ix35 Estate (2010 - 2015) practicality

The ix35 scored a five-star rating from Euro NCAP and also enjoys a 90% rating for adult occupant safety. It also scores 88% for children, but only 54% for pedestrians. Hyundai ix35 safety kit includes ESP stability control as standard along with rear parking sensors plus there are six airbags including two full length curtain airbags.

The side pillars between the front and rear doors has also been designed to act as an internal rollover bar if required. Elsewhere, the front seats have active head restraints, to minimise whiplash injuries.

It may look like a considerable off-roader, but the ix35 is more compact than it appears - in fact it's shorter than a Vauxhall Astra. It has a tight turning circle, so tricky manoeuvres are straightforward, while rear parking sensors are standard on all cars - ideal for tight spaces such as multi-storey car parks.

But this compact size doesn't mean the ix35 is small inside - far from it. The boot is an impressive 591 litres with the seats up - considerably more than a Toyota RAV4 or a Ford Kuga. The rear seats fold down easily (although not totally flat or level) to boost space to 1,436 litres.

There's plenty of storage on board including large door pockets, a cooled glovebox and a generous central cubby between the front seats that doubles as an armrest. Bluetooth connectivity is also included.