THE idea of a sporting estate car probably kicked off a couple of decades ago with the first Audi Avant - a genuine load carrier, but a tad more rakish than your average station wagon.

It's a concept that has grown into a definite niche...but the design reached new levels with the introduction of the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake, a classy coupe-come-estate with compact external dimensions but enough usable cabin room for most small families.

But don't expect to be able to load a wardrobe on board - the tailgate lifts to reveal 1,354 litres of cargo room, which is nearly 300 litres less than a Golf estate.

It is, however, much prettier and cuts more of a dash. Which is exactly what the Shoooting Brake is about.

There's a wide choice of diesel and petrol engines culminating in the Tarmac-tearing 45 AMG which packs a sledgehammer punch and 355bhp. I opted for a more modestly powered version - the 220 CDI, which is one up from the cheapest diesel, the 200.

With 175bhp at hand, in a light and streamlined body, the £32,460 Shooting Brake in OrangeART guise is fast enough without threatening your driving licence.

The 2.1litre diesel isn't the world's most modern unit or the quietest, but a good installation in the Shooting Brake means there's little harshness or vibration as revs mount. Mated to seven-speed dual clutch automatic, it's a relaxing and satisfying drive.

Eco, Sport and Manual modes allow you to select what's right for particular journeys and there are steering wheel-mounted paddles to play with if you feel the urge. Cornering, via front drive, is flat, roll-free and totally predictable with reasonable feed-back through pleasantly weighted power steering.

The cabin is smart and prestigious with plenty of tactile plastics and quality leather seating. An iPad-like screen dominates proceedings on the dash and is easy to use and efficient. Front seats are well shaped and the rear is comfortable enough for two passengers, although the scalloped roofline is quite low which affects entry and the amount of headroom, once you are installed.

The tapered roof also impairs rear visibility which is most noticeable when reversing - particularly at night. An optional reversing camera is a worthwhile accessory.

With 495 litres of luggage space before the rear seats are folded down, most families will find the boot bigger than the average mid-sized hatchback, and more flexible than most three-box saloons. A ‘load compartment package' allows you to adjust the rear seats more vertically to boost the cargo area by 10 0litres.

With emissions of just 108g/km and a real-life average fuel consumption of 45-50mpg, the Shooting Brake is an economical car to run and maintain, despite its rather exotic image and appearance.

This car came with flashy OrangeART trim which adds some flashy features inside and out. Cruise control, active park assist and xenon lights are standard.