There’s no Euro NCAP crash test rating, but you wouldn’t expect anything less than a comprehensive list of safety and security kit in a car that transports politicians. Front, side and curtain airbags are standard as well as electronic stability control. New for 2006 models is a tyre pressure monitoring system and uprated brakes. An armour plated version is available, and has gained much positive feedback from drivers as the car is so light before the armour is added, it doesn’t become too unwieldy.

It might not be as roomy inside as its rivals, but it will still do a decent job of transporting five people in comfort. However although the boot is a decent size, you can’t help feeling it should be bigger given the sheer five-metre length of the XJ. It has 470 litres of luggage room, but other large saloons like the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S-Class offer at least 500 litres.

Stowage in the front is adequate but the glovebox isn’t especially large and the central cubby between the seats is quite shallow and dominated by two cupholders.