Although the Modus gained five stars for occupant protection in the Euro NCAP tests in 2004 – and was the first small car to gain the accolade – its pedestrian protection rating of one star is nothing special. Six airbags are standard (on all but Authentique models), front seatbelts have pre-tensioners which tighten before an impact and load limiters to help reduce the risk of internal injury.

Isofix attachments are also fitted for child safety seats and the front passenger airbags and pretensioner can be deactivated should a child seat be fitted.

While the Modus is roomy enough for four adults and some luggage, it also offers some ingenious convenience features to ensure it can carry more than you would expect. It can be chosen with a split opening rear hatch for those times when you arrive back at your car to find someone has parked so close that you can’t open the boot. The lower section of the tailgate has a panel that is hinged at its base and can be opened downwards.

The Modus can also be specified with an integrated bicycle rack which can carry two adult bikes. The front passenger seat on some models also has a stowage facility: part of the cushion folds to form a hollow to hold objects safely while driving and the backrest can also be folded forwards to allow long items to be carried.