SALES of 40,000 in the UK since its 2013 launch underline just how popular Peugeot's compact SUV the 2008 has proved.

Now the model is taking on a more assertive and powerful appeal with upgrades like more stylish wheel arch extensions, a new vertical front grille and scuff plates from the upmarket Allure trim grade.

While there's now a new Ultimate Red colour up for grabs, the line-up's Access, Active and Allure levels are all complemented by the new superior ‘GT Line' model with its sporty red/black colour features.

As well as featuring the French brand's i-Cockpit, the 2008 also comes with the Grip Control traction system plus Mud & Snow winter tyres.

And four of the available engines, including the 1.2L PureTech 130 S&S, are officially rated as best in class.

The UK range is made up of PureTech petrol and BlueHDi diesel engines ranging from 82 to 130bhp and with CO2 emissions from 96 to 114g/km.

2008 was one of three world premieres at the Geneva Motor Show, where Peugeot also unveiled its new Traveller VIP shuttle and Traveller i-Lab concept.

The i-Lab represents a combination of connectivity, design and comfort for the driver and passengers in a model that's set apart from Peugeot's SUV and car model range.

Fancy a meeting on the move and the i-Lab does the business with its four individual seats arranged opposite one another around a giant 32-inch touchscreen tablet.

The latter can be used as an individual screen or be split into four, has been developed in partnership with Samsung and has a Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth, charging docks and virtual reality headsets.

Displayed in a dark copper colour at Geneva, the Traveller's sub two-metre height allows access to underground and city car parks while its hands-free sliding side doors are activated by a swipe of the foot underneath the vehicle.

Dark tinted windows ensure privacy and passengers can relax in seats upholstered in Alcantara and black leather with leather-trimmed inner door panels.

Regards safety, the vehicle monitors the drivers' concentration, its monitoring system alerting them after two hours of continuous driving, then every hour if they haven't stopped.

And voice recognition provides additional security by allowing drivers to control navigation, phone and media functions without taking their eyes off the road.