Verdict

This is a world away from the bloated, bland 207 that went before. Peugeot deserves praise for making a car that’s smaller and lighter but with more space inside than before. We’re quite big fans of the innovative interior architecture, but try before you buy - it won’t be for everyone. That, together with the tech set up, mean this is a car with a good deal of appeal for people like us.

It’s not perfect – it’s on the pricey side in this trim level and still doesn’t drive with the panache of Peugeots of old, but that clever interior, smart tech set-up, good looks and a brilliant diesel engine mean it ought at least to be on your shortlist.

    See also:

    Cabin oddities
    Peugeot’s clearly taking this modern technology theme seriously, because this is the first car we’ve tested without a CD player. Instead you get two USB ports. They connected phones and devices up ...

    Wiper controls
    System for selection and control of the various front and rear wiping modes for the elimination of rain and cleaning. The vehicle's front and rear wipers are designed to improve the driver' ...

    Tailgate release
    System for mechanical unlocking of the boot in the event of a central locking malfunction. Unlocking Fold back the rear seats to gain access to the lock from inside the boot. Insert a small ...