In a class occupied mostly by big 4x4s, the Mercedes-Benz E350 CDI Estate is an excellent alternative.

It’s hard to find much to criticise when towing with the E-Class. Performance is excellent, going from 30-60mph in just 10.4 seconds. Haul on the anchors and the big Merc is just as impressive, bringing the outfit to a halt in just 10.1 metres.

Even at 70mph the E-Class felt secure, and quickly pulled the caravan straight after any steering input. In the lane-change test, it was only when pushed hard on the final 35mph run that the caravan could be felt shoving the back of the car.

The reversing test and hill start were entirely stress-free, so long as the foot-operated parking brake was given a firm push to keep car and caravan still. Hardly any revs were needed for the 3.5-litre diesel to pull the outfit to the top of the hill.

The practicality judge was almost as impressed as the drivers. The E-Class Estate has long been known for its huge luggage capacity, and the latest generation is no different. Seats up gives 695 litres of space, easily enough to cope with our holiday luggage load. Seats down, the capacity rises to 1950 litres.

The spare wheel is a space-saver rather than full-size, but Mercedes advises it can be used when towing. Further points were won by the Trailer Stability Programme and self-levelling suspension.

With a price tag just below £40,000, the Merc isn’t cheap, but it should be worth 44% of its original price after three years.