Satellite navigation has been found to be the most important gadget when choosing a new car, ahead of a driver airbag, according to research from the Bank of Scotland Vehicle Finance.

The vehicle finance company questioned 1,600 company car drivers, as part of the report ‘company cars, the drivers’ perspective’.

They were asked to specify what factors led them to select their current company car and in particular what optional extras were key to this choice.

Nearly 60% of those questioned said that they are now spending longer behind the wheel and the car has become a home from home.

Top five comfort and safety features:

1. Satellite Navigation
2. Climate control
3. Driver airbag(s)
4. Six track CD player / Bose sound system / iPod holder
5. ‘Add ons’ e.g. cup holders and mobile phone holders