A super sexy SUV

dash to 62mph and CO2 of 124g/km. It is priced at £32,995. Four levels of trim are available.

The flowing curves and purposeful stance of the new car may grab potential buyers’ attention at first.

But it’s the cabin which soon takes over as the star of the show. Known as the i-Cockpit, it is dominated by an eightinch tablet-like screen beneath which are a row of tactile toggle switches which act as short cuts to the various touch screen activities – an innovative concept which works well in practice,

Door trims wrap round to neatly join the facia and dash giving the cabin a distinctly upmarket appearance. Materials used are high quality and touch-friendly.

With manual six-speed gearbox – an automatic six-speed is an option – the diesel 1.6 BlueHDi 120 feels nimble and light on its toes over country roads, perhaps partly because it has shed 100kg over its predecessor.

There’s little cornering roll yet undulations and road imperfections are soaked up without disturbing the car’s composure.

It’s unusually quiet and possesses strong enough torque to avoid frequent down-changes.

Equipped with six-speed auto transmission, it manages well the role of long distance, family express.

Perhaps star of the line up will be the little 1.2litre PureTech 130 petrol engine which is available in the entry level Active at £21,795.

Developing 129bhp the three-cylinder unit emits just 117g/km, manages 52.3mpg combined and is quick enough to keep up with most 1.6litre petrols or diesels.

With high levels of standard equipment together with its exciting styling and a wide choice of power units, the 3008 is possibly the best compact SUV on sale right now.