“For the ES 300h Premium Edition is as big as a Mercedes-Benz E-Class or BMW 5-Series and just as classy, yet it is priced at just £38,605. That’s not too much more than some of the mid-sized family cars from more mainstream manufacturers which, while good, are hardly in the same league when it comes to image, build quality and refinement.

“With its 2.5-litre petrol engine working in tandem with an electric motor this is a sleek executive saloon par-excellence.” Ride quality is “superb” and from inside the cabin, which boasts “executive styling all the way”, “there is barely any engine noise”.

“While a large car with a 2.5-litre engine might suggest it’s heavy on the fuel, the hybrid combination means this car will average up to 53 miles per gallon.

“At the same time it can deliver real gutsy performance in mid-range driving where it excels, eating up the miles while you relax in comfort.

“Even its 0-62 miles per hour acceleration time is a very respectable 8.9 seconds, although its raison d’etre is smooth effortless motoring rather than the sporting, quick off-the-mark style of many of its competitors.