I’ve been putting some miles on the Mazda6 and feel reassured that, like the predecessor I spent a year with in 2013, it has a modern, yet sensible, estate car style that belies its sharp driving dynamics. It’s fun and comfortable to drive.

Mazda UK tags the Mazda6 Tourer as “the driver’s car that families love”, and the 4.8 out of five Feefo independent feedback score from owners suggests there’s something in that.

However, one couple gripes about the level of automated safety features, stating “they’re unnecessary or intrusive and we have turned them off”, which, in my view, could present an opportunity for the Mazda dealer to get in touch and show the benefits they might one day provide.

EuroNCAP indicates the Mazda6 scored 95% and 91% in tests for adult and child occupant safety respectively thanks to its standard safety equipment. So, sales executives should highlight to prospective buyers that its automated emergency braking (AEB) system is there to help avoid colliding with a stationary or suddenly slowing vehicle in front.

Lane-keeping assist also prevents the car drifting into others alongside. The Mazda6’s AEB also triggers on detecting vulnerable pedestrians stepping out in front or walking along the roadside in its path, and, if these are struck, the car’s bonnet lifts instantly to reduce the risk of the pedestrian’s head hitting hard structures in the engine compartment.