Some might say ‘it’s never going to be a looker’ but the SEAT Toledo makes up for this in space and value for money.

Positioned between the Ibiza supermini and the Leon, the engine range comprises four petrol units and one diesel.

The most powerful engine is the 122 PS 1.4 TSI petrol, which comes as standard with a DSG twin-clutch automatic gearbox, while the most economical is the diesel that I drove, a 1.6 TDI with 105 PS.

This powers the Toledo Ecomotive – the most efficient car in the range – as with the rest of the SEAT model line-up.

Acceleration is good – there is a slick five-speed gearbox but it was just habit that made me want to go to sixth gear rather than the car needing to.

That said, it’s not what you’d call an exciting performer, unless you get excited about miles to the gallon.

If you spend a large part of your life on motorways and you come with a lot of baggage, the Toledo is the car for you.

And though it may look like a saloon, it’s actually a rather cleverly-disguised hatchback and very roomy throughout.

Boot space is always of interest to me these days and there is oodles of space in this one, with 550-litres with the seats in place and 1,490 litres with the seats folded.

The cabin layout is simple and functional, and it is clear to see that the Toledo is built on the same Czech production line as Skoda’s Rapid.

Features include 16-inch alloy wheels, climate control, a cooled glove box (thanks to the current hot spell, it’s the first time I’ve ever used this feature – and it’s great!) cruise control, fog lamps and leather trim for the steering wheel and gear lever knob.

Specification on S versions is generous, with air conditioning (where would we be without it?) remote audio controls, Bluetooth, a split-fold rear seat, power front windows and electronic stability control.

Its low emissions will give drivers a free tax disc during the first year of ownership and just £20 per year thereafter.

All models come with a three-year/ 60,000-mile warranty.

Fact File:
Car: SEAT Toledo SE 1.6 TDi
On the road: £17,840
Top speed: 118mph
0-62mph: 10.4 seconds
Fuel: 70.6mpg
CO2 emissions: 106g/km