THEY say, whoever they are, that good things come in small packages.

The Peugeot 3008 is not a small car, but an excellent, practical family motor that has been hoovering up various industry awards.

Recently revamped, it is relentlessly stylish and has an executive feel to it, particularly with this high-end model, which bears comparison with best in the executive class.

Smart and stylish though it is, one of the star performers must the be the 1.2-litre engine.

Seeming a small unit for the size of car, in this case that is deceptive as it clearly is a good thing in a small package.

The three cylinder Puretch petrol engine, mated to a six-speed gearbox certainly punches above its weight. The 130ps unit has plenty of grunt and the signature throaty rasp of the three cylinder engine adds a sporty element.

It zips the car to 60mph in 10.8 seconds, it feels quicker, and has plenty of torque. The excellent torque also gives it that extra urge on the motorway when overtaking.

It's pretty economical too, with a claimed 55mpg seeming nearer to 45 in the real world, but still pretty good.

The ride is comfortable, but the high stance means the car can be unsettled on lesser roads, but otherwise is smooth with little evidence of wind noise or engine noise.

In the metal, so the speak, it is a very stylish car with a dynamic profile, with eye-catching two tone diamond cut alloy wheels and integrated roof bars.

The GT Line and GT feature a chequered grille combined with full LED headlights GT Line emblems on front wing and tailgate and contrasting black diamond roof.

The interior is the same high quality from the soft touch trim to dash and doors, leather effect seats, small steering wheel, signature inserts and state of the art digital i-Cockpit.

This features a configurable 12.3-inch head-up digital instrument panel and an eight-inch touch-screen, high tech features abound including a 360 degree bird's eye view parking assist system.

Another innovation on this model isAmplify system which enhances the driving experience with a choice of two settings, boost and relax. This can change the interior ambience, with changes to lighting, sound and fragrance. So engine tone, colour scheme and cabin smell are selectable.

The central touchscreen controls major functions such as sat nav and music system as well as connectivity for your Apple or Android phone through Carplay or MirrorLink. There is also a smartphone charging plate.

Various seating combinations are available to accommodate all sorts of loads and family members, and while not being the off-roader it resembles, offers traction-enhancing Grip Control for those tricky road conditions at a £470 premium.

Boot space is among the best in its class and the 520 litres and can be increased with split folding rear seats, There is plenty of space for you average family and a bit more besides. There are also plenty of other storage areas and drink holders. Access on this model is via the optional powered tailgate. Another option is the panoramic sliding electric roof.