Citroen stands out from crowd with its new C3 Aircross SUV

petrol engine with a choice of three power outputs or a 1.6 diesel with a choice of two outputs, the most powerful versions paired with six-speed manual transmissions and the rest getting five gears – although the mid-powered petrol is also available with a six-speed automatic.

All of them are frugal and, with the exception of the entry-level petrol, punchy enough for life around town as well as keeping up on the motorway. Choice is, therefore, really a matter of personal preference but the diesels are sensible choices if you do high mileage.

With a set-up focused on comfort the driving experience is easygoing and enjoyable rather than engaging and exciting – but that’s the point really in a family SUV.

Light steering and compact dimensions make manoeuvring straightforward and the supple suspension flattens out imperfections in the road surface well.

Despite the rufty-tufty looks, however, the C3 Aircross is largely geared for life on the road and all-wheel drive is not an option.

If you do want to tackle something a little more challenging than the Tesco car park, though, you can specify Citroen’s £400 grip control system, which comes with specialised tyres and offers snow, sand and all-terrain modes as well as hill descent assist.

Equipment is a little basic on entry-level Touch cars and stepping up to mid-range Feel is advisable to get the touchscreen and some descent infotainment kit but to for niceties such as satnav and rear parking sensors you’ll need to shell out for flagship Flair trim.