NOT being one of the herd can pay off... quite literally.

Many motorists follow a trend and choose a diesel powered car, but unless you are a high mileage driver it can prove false economy as the latest petrol models offer nearly as good mileage as their oil-burning siblings.

One of the most impressive examples is the Peugeot 308 SW GT line fitted with THP 130 engine.

Despite a capacity of just 1.2-litres, the 127bhp engine will dispose of the 62mph sprint in 11 seconds, top 123mph and can claim an official combinedmpg of54.3.

Free revving and as sweet as they come, the three cylinder turbocharged unit has better refinement than any diesel yet fares almost as well at the pumps. My average over 500 miles was 48mpg.

The GT Line trim peps up the cabin and offers a few extra treats over the Sportium, Active and Allure versions. Leather steering wheel, Alcantara trimmed sports seats and aluminium style pedals are fitted and, from the outside, the GT Line can be recognised by 18-inch Diamant alloy wheels, twin exhausts and tinted side windows.

The price is £23,345 and the this car came with options including a panoramic fixed glass sunroof (£500) and pearlescent paint (£525).

The 308 SW is deceptively roomy, especially for luggage. The low flat floor can carry no less than 660 litres of luggage with the rear seats in place and up to 1,775 litres when they are folded flat. Passenger space front and back is a good match for most rivals except the more generously proportioned Skoda Octavia.

Despite having gained 110mm to the wheelbase, and a greater rear overhang, the SW remains as pretty as the hatchback, perhaps even more attractive looking.

The interior has plenty of high grade, soft-touch plastic and is minimalist in its approach with an absence of clutter.

The small steering wheel is set unusually low, beneath the widely spaced major dials. It's a driving position that may not suit everybody, but I soon adjusted to it. A large rectangular touch screen dominates proceedings and controls most systems in the centre of the console.

A short, chromium-capped gear lever takes centre stage between driver and passenger. The six-speed change is light and swift and complements the driver-focused nature of the 308.

The glass panoramic roof ensures that the cabin remains light and airy even on a dull day, but it doesn't open. A blind shuts out the sun's rays on brighter days. It is a classy yet businesslike environment which would not look out of place in a premium model. Well done Peugeot.

The French firm seems to have recaptured their ability to build driving enjoyment into their cars, for the 308 GT Line is well balanced and composed whether being hurried through favourite bends or thrashing along a motorway at rush hour. Noise levels are low and the ride is compliant without being over-soft.

Families will appreciate the various bottle holders, door pockets and cubbies. There's also a ‘secret' storage area beneath the rear luggage platform for valuables.