This is the Ford Focus ST Wagon, the estate version of the Blue Oval’s latest performance car. Early predictions suggest it will account for around 10 per cent of the anticipated 4000 annual sales of the ST in the UK (of a total of 800 worldwide), although Ford insiders admit that they are “prepared to be surprised” if that ratio is in fact higher.

That’s because the early feedback is that the ST’s overall usability, and particularly the all-round suppleness of the ride, has significantly enhanced its credentials as a fun family car rather than niche enthusiast’s vehicle. The Wagon’s increased boot capacity only adds to that reputation.

The Wagon is 204mm longer than the hatch and 21mm higher, but the same width and wheelbase. Unsurprisingly, the boot is also longer, wider and higher; seats down and with no spare tyre, it’ll take 1516 litres of luggage, as opposed to the hatch’s 1148 litres, thanks in part to redesigned rear suspension over the hatch, with the shock absorbers angled to avoid encroaching on boot space . It also weighs marginally more, at 1386kg, as opposed to the hatch's 1362kg.

Elsewhere, it’s the same story as the Ford Focus ST hatchback which we have also driven: the Wagon is powered by the same four-pot engine as the hatch and records almost identical performance and efficiency figures, running to 62mph from a standstill just 0.1sec slower.

Prices start from £23,095, a £1100 premium over the hatch.