Choose from the relatively sensible 237bhp 3.0 V6 TDI - which offers a good mix of power, performance and low running costs - or the extremely quick, borderline-bonkers 443bhp 6.0-litre W12 petrol. Both versions have four-wheel drive, with an automatic transmission as standard.

Air-sprung suspension is adjustable for both firmness and ride height. This does a great job of keeping the car level over rutted streets. Body control is excellent, but the speed-sensitive steering is short of feel. Surface imperfections are dealt with competently.

The W12 is near-silent at tickover and smooth at pace, although the diesel is a little noisier when you're pressing on. Despite double-glazing, a small amount of wind noise penetrates, but it’s only noticeable because the engine and tyres are so hushed.

The Phaeton is expensive to service and the W12 will struggle to better mid-teen fuel consumption over a combined cycle. When the time comes to sell it, the VW badge will ensure the Phaeton retains less of its value than a Mercedes S-Class after three years. As a company car, all models fall into the top tax band.

Inside, little is left to the imagination. Bedecked in a herd’s worth of leather and forests of wood, displaying a vast array of dials and digital displays, the Phaeton reeks of quality and delivers a real sense of occasion. Build quality is second to none, and, being a VW, very little should go wrong.

Twin front and side airbags are joined by full-length curtain airbags mounted above the doors. Side impact protection is further enhanced for rear passengers by side airbags. Hugely powerful brakes and five types of electronic driver’s aids are on hand to rein in the Phaeton should things start to get out of hand.

Electric adjustability of the sumptuous seats and steering wheel means all manner of shapes and sizes can dial in the perfect driving position. All Phaetons come with automatic ’boxes and W12 drivers can choose to shift gears via steering column-mounted paddles, and changes are seamless even when pushing on. The sheer number of gadgets can be distracting.

The Phaeton has an enormous cabin and loads of luggage space; rear-seat passengers are particularly well-accommodated. The diesel comes in standard (5055mm-long) and long-wheelbase (5175mm) formats, and the W12 is LWB-only, but even the shorter model is hugely roomy.

There are over 100 different buttons and switches to control an immense amount of electrical functions. It would be easier to say what is not standard, but notable attractions include the four-zone climate control, sat-nav, full leather upholstery, rain-sensitive wipers and air-sprung suspension.