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 ...

    Manual air conditioning
    The heating / ventilation or air conditioning systems can only operate with the engine running. 1. Temperature adjustment Turn the dial from blue (cold) to red (hot) to adjust the temperature ...

    Misfuel prevention (diesel)
    Mechanical device which prevents filling the tank of a Diesel vehicle with petrol. It avoids the risk of engine damage that can result from filling with the wrong fuel. Located in the filler neck ...