Should you buy one?

Yes, but it depends on the spec of the car you’re choosing. Trim levels higher up the range are pricey, so stick to the middle of the range for a more valuable mix of equipment and price. We’d aim for GT trim, but an Allure spec car comes with most of the kit you’d really need.

That interior really boosts the Peugeot’s appeal as well. It may look a bit wacky compared with a Volkswagen or Skoda’s more traditional offerings, but quality is excellent (and goes a long way to justifying its price) and boosts the feel inside. It’s an added bonus that it all works well once you learn where some of the controls are. However, if you prioritise usability and space, take a look at the Skoda Kamiq instead, while the Ford Puma is a better drive with a larger boot.

What we like

The 2008 feels different and modern when compared with some of its rivals, and the upmarket interior complements the exterior design very well. The PureTech 130 engine is the best all-rounder, since it’s plenty powerful and impressively refined, with manageable running costs too. A manual will suit most, but don’t discount the automatic.

What we don’t like

The i-Cockpit layout still won’t suit everyone, so we’d strongly recommend getting behind the wheel of a 2008 before parting with your cash. We still wish there were separate air-con controls not accessed via the touchscreen, too, since these can be tricky to use when on the move. Space-wise the 2008 is reasonably good, but GT cars do come with a darker cabin than other specs.