Extra advanced kit can be added, as an option, to help further Volkswagen Passat safety capabilities. This includes Fatigue detection, front assist with city emergency detection, traffic sign detection, Park Assist, light assist and side assist lane-changing warning system. The optional new city emergency braking function (a part of the Automatic Distance Control (ADC) system) automatically engages the brakes at speeds below 18 mph should an unavoidable collision be sensed by the vehicle.

The system is also able to accelerate the vehicle automatically should it detect an imminent rear end collision providing the vehicle sees a clear space ahead. There’s also an automatic fatigue detection system. It monitors the driver and automatically emits an audible and visual warning to recommend a break if it feels the driver is tired. While traffic sign detection detects speed limit signs and no passing zones and up to three of these signs are shown on the driver information cluster.

As with previous Passat models, the Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) incorporates Trailer Stabilisation when a factory fitted towbar is specified. All this kit helped the car achieve the top score of five stars in the Euro NCAP safety ratings.

This is a practical saloon. It can seat four adults and comes with 565-litres of loadspace – that’s more than enough space for at least two sets of golf clubs and a couple of soft bags. Volkswagen has come up with a great solution to help you open the boot when your hands are full. On vehicles specified with keyless entry, so long as you’re carrying the key fob, a simple foot motion at the back of the car is enough to activate sensors that open the boot automatically.

A brilliant feature and sure to make loading the car much easier. There is plenty of interior storage space for all your nik-naks and the door pockets are a good size and depth. Unfortunately there is a downside. Select a car with a manual gearbox and you will soon find a bottle stored in the central console gets clouted by your arm when you change gears.