It's mind-boggling to think of the kind of technology that is now available across most brands.

It wasn't that many years ago when the optional extras list consisted of features such as electric windows, central locking and air conditioning, all of which are now largely fitted as standard on all cars.

Instead they have been replaced on the options list by equipment such as lane departure systems, reversing cameras and automatic parallel parking.

This improvement in technology and standard equipment is a good thing, as many features are systems you would now not want to be without, like sat-nav and parking sensors, although other 'advances' can be more gimmicky.

One feature on the A3 Sportback which, for me, falls between the two is the Audi ‘drive select’ system.

This is a clever device which changes the car's driving characteristics at the touch of a button to best suit your needs.

There are five modes to choose from: Comfort, Dynamic, Auto, Efficiency and Individual.

Aimed at long distances, Comfort adjusts your set-up to create a more relaxing ride.

Dynamic changes the settings for a sportier driving experience, adjusting steering and throttle response.

Auto mode adapts the system depending on the current driving situation while Individual allows you to configure the dynamics of the car to your own preferences.

Although I have tried out the different settings, I quickly reverted to Auto mode which I imagine most people do.

Having a car with the ability to automatically optimise its performance depending on the situation is impressive enough, but the manual adjustment is just a little too close to gimmicky for me.