There’s a rather basic problem with the standard six-speed automatic gearbox on our top spec ASX.

It’s smooth enough between changes but the gear stick can be easily knocked into the wrong position. Rather than standard ‘drive’, the handle can be knocked into ‘manual’ change – with causes the engine to over rev.

The gate between the two positions is so easy to miss that embarrassing garchanges are never far away. It’s a very odd problem – not one I’ve experienced before.

Otherwise, the 2.2 diesel trundles along at unremarkable speeds without the slightest grumble. Only you will be cursing if you leave he stick in the wrong position…