BUYER BEWARE

BOOT SPACE

Front-driven models have 267 litres of boot space, while 4x4 models have a 20% reduction, at 204 litres. It’s beaten by the Volkswagen Up and Renault Twingo with the rear seats slid right back, but the space grows to 1100 litres with them folded down.

ELECTRICS

The Ignis was recalled for incorrect software in the ECU, which could cause the stop-start system to stop working, potentially resulting in the battery running out of charge. At worst, the engine will stall and fail to restart.

SAFETY

The Ignis scored only a three-star Euro NCAP rating, being particularly let down by its poor active safety. A £750 options pack addresses this with automatic emergency braking, speed assistance and lane keeping assistance, but it can’t be added to entry-level cars. The pack comes as standard on the range-topping SZ5.