THE SEAT Exeo is based on the Audi A4 and so the new automatic can only use Audi's multitronic CVT gearbox.

But don't worry - it works like a dream. CVT - that's continuously variable transmission - is a little odd for anyone who has not driven it, because the engine note stays roughly constant and the gearbox does the accelerating.

But mated to the Exeo's 2.0-litre 140bhp turbo diesel, which is producing real power from just 1,500 revs, it gives great acceleration from any speed.

The engine is a little noisier here than in other VW group cars but it's never really intrusive.

And the gearbox also has sport and manual modes, where it is transformed into a seven-speeder with paddles behind the wheel that give lightning changes. That said, the sport setting does it all just as well as you can do it yourself.

It rides beautifully apart from a slight lumpiness at speed on very rough surfaces and it holds the road like a dream, with very little roll.

The Exeo is hugely well equipped, with things like sat nav, tyre pressure monitors and leather all included.

: VW Jetta