THE Peugeot 5008 is a people carrier - but one that defies the traditional staid image of a bus designed to lug families and five-a-side football teams from A to B.

Peugeot's compact MPV is a modern, stylish, practical, fun-to-drive example of what can be done when flair and imagination are brought to bear.

In much the same way that Russell T Davies revitalised Doctor Who, Peugeot has dragged a concept that seemed dated and out of favour bang into the 21st century.

First impressions are good as the exterior features a distinctive sleek profile aided by stylish headlights and a steeply-raked bonnet.

The rear is distinctive thanks to sleek rear lights and a wide-opening tailgate offering easy access to the boot.

The windows are large letting lots of light into the cabin creating a pleasant airy atmosphere.

The driver gets a great view of the road, thanks to an elevated position behind the wheel, and benefits from a cockpit design with all the switchgear within easy reach. The instrument panel is housed in an elegant inclined centre console.

There is space for seven occupants with Peugeot claiming that even the third row of seats can accommodate adults - but in reality this is only an option for short journeys. The three middle row seats are equipped with two seat-back tilting positions and can slide to suit requirements.

The 5008 can resemble a cave when required as all five rear seats fold away easily to leave a long, flat load area. When all the chairs are needed there is still enough space for some bags of shopping or a couple of overnight bags.

The 1.6-litre diesel engine is a reasonably frugal beast with enough pulling power to get the job done when it comes to over-taking. The family budget should be able to cope with running costs as carbon dioxide emissions are relatively low and the oil burner averages more than 50mpg.

The 5008 displays good handling characteristics - driving more like a saloon than an MPV - with sharp steering and levels of grip that inspire confidence when cornering.

The ride is smooth and comfortable - essential on long motorway journeys to visit relations - and little noise makes it into the cabin so ironing out the tensions of the school run.

A car with serious pretensions of being selected by parents has to have a first-class degree in safety and the 5008 doesn't disappoint. There's stability control fitted as standard to help keep you out of trouble, while front and side airbags, plus curtain airbags running the full length of the cabin, are there to protect when things go wrong.

There are three levels of trim to choose from with even the entry-level Access model getting air conditioning, a radio/CD player, and electric front windows.

The Active model I drove steps this up to include rear parking sensors, cruise control and rear electric windows, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels, plus automatic headlights and wipers.

It all adds up to a potent package that will tick most of the boxes for families looking to buy a modern practical motor.