The 4x4/SUV sector was a cause for concern for fleet managers last year with residual values taking a nosedive, but recent auction reports show that the market has almost recovered.

That makes models such as the Tiguan more tempting again, blending financial good sense (40% retained value after three-years/ 60,000-miles) with a package drivers covet, especially in our test car which mates the 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine to a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The Tiptronic unit is one of the best semi-autos, but it does have some downsides.

The Tiguan emits 199g/km of CO2, compared with 167g/km for the manual version (an increase of six benefit-in-kind tax bands).

But that, unfortunately, is the price you pay for opting for an SUV. Even if it is a small one.