Nissan Terrano Sport

To maintain this, the firm has launched a high-spec Sport edition of the capable mud-plugger, aimed at big-selling soft-roaders such as the Land Rover Freelander and Jeep Cherokee. Priced ΂£23,295, it has new 17in alloys and colour-coded wheelarch spats and bumpers. In the cabin, seven Alcantara-trimmed seats are offered as part of a series of upgrades worth ΂£1,500.

The result is a car that looks bang-up-to-date and is comfortable and spacious, too. But it's not all good news. While our test model, powered by a 3.0-litre turbodiesel taken from the robust Patrol, had accurate steering and a relatively supple ride for a serious 4x4, we couldn't get over just how much noise the engine made. Thankfully, the four-cylinder unit, which produces 156bhp, does offer an impressive turn of speed, with 0-60mph taking around 13.5 seconds. The low-ratio box means you'll be swapping ratios regularly on winding roads, while the efficient 4WD system offers superb traction. Braking proves equally effective; the ABS will slow the car quickly and securely. It all goes to show that with the right modifications even the most functional cars can be made user-friendly. In the case of the Terrano, it proves there's life in the old dog yet.