Offered in both sedan and Sportcross (five door hatch) variants, IS200 requires a pop at BMW’s class-dominating 3-Series – and scores a bulls-eye.

A crisp and free-revving six cylinder engine, two litres and 156PS, is matched for an equally sharp chassis using a clean-shifting six-speed gearbox to an all-independent suspension system that endows the vehicle with superb handling and road holding.

Clean, understated looks exude feeling of quiet, understated class, and accommodation is nice. The best facet of the IS200 may be the sense of driver involvement; despite wear and tear and despite being Alan Partridge’s chosen mode of transport the vehicle continues to attract and hold its appeal.