PEUGEOT'S 5008 has been reborn into vehicle which gives a rare combination of seating for seven, innovative practicality and a purity of line that is almost classic.

Make no mistake, this is a generously proportioned vehicle , but it has to be considering its applications. Therefore, the choice of a three-cylinder petrol engine as a power option may be considered somewhat wimpy for such a set of wheels.

Of the versions I experienced at the car's launch it was the 1,199cc turbocharged three-cylinder 130bhp unit that really impressed.

Engines of this type, especially early versions from various manufacturers can occasionally be a little noisy and can vibrate at tick-over, but the Peugeot version really was super smooth and wafted this vehicle along with the punch of a two-litre of old.

For instance, it can rocket the 5008 PureTech GT Line model from 0-62mph in 10.9 seconds and up to 117mph where permitted.

But it is the overall smoothness of the vehicle and combined mpg figure of 55.4 that is going to be a magnet to petrol-power fans. Emissions are rated at 117g/km.

The strong, straight horizontal line of this car accentuates it roomy body, which is understandable as the original 5008 was an MPV which underwent transformation on a wave of SUV euphoria.

Inside is the latest digital version of the Peugeot i-Cockpit and a lot of legroom for middle row passengers. The third row of seats which snap up instantly from the roomy luggage compartment are no afterthought but are comfortable and support.

Another feature which was praiseworthy was the compact steering wheel with a small diameter and almost flat top and bottom.

This is also a car that can stimulate the senses by adjusting screen colour and compartment lighting intensity, musical ambience settings, multi-point seat massage programmes and a fragrance infuser.

The versatility of this car is accentuated by the fact that the front passenger seat can be folded flat to accommodate a long load.

Strong visual factors include LED claw effect rear lights and a large glass opening glass roof which really set this vehicle apart.

There are eight engine options, either petrol or diesel and a whole raft of driver assistance aids including distance alert.

Manufactured at Rennes in France, the 5008 sells at prices starting from £24,495.