Few estates have looks as distinctive as the 300C Touring. With its menacing styling, big chrome grille and flared wheel arches, it’s as American as large estates get and a realistic alternative to the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. But it’s not all about looks. This is one estate that’s exceptionally well equipped, very comfortable, practical and competitively priced – in fact it undercuts its rivals by a minimum of several thousand pounds.

There’s also an excellent engine available in the shape of the 3.0 CRD diesel, which is quick and economical, although if you can afford the fuel bills, there is the option of an all-American 5.7-litre V8.