Cover up the badges and the Phaeton makes a good attempt at rivalling Mercedes' S-Class. Yet image is absolutely vital in this sector - and we don't think the big VW cuts enough of a dash.

Although the Phaeton wears well, it’s worth buying the newest, lowest-mileage car you can afford. Just don’t get carried away; models at £20,000-plus still have a fair bit of depreciating to do.