THE Peugeot 3008 is a mid-sized SUV with a cabin that packs a big punch.

Slip on to the 3008's comfortable driving seat, use the buttons to achieve the perfect position behind the steering wheel, push the ignition button and let the show begin.

The star performer in this case is the latest version of Peugeot's high tech i-Cockpit which offers impressive graphics and stunning styling with a virtual instrument panel as standard.

If you saw this in a motor that was double the price you wouldn't be surprised and in this £34,420 GT Line Premium it definitely provides the wow factor.

The view for the driver is unusual in that the steering wheel is smaller than normal and set so that you look over rather than through it at the 12.3-inch multi-mode instrument display panel.

And what a panel it is with five different configurations that can show information ranging from conventional speed and rev counter dials to sat nav directions handily sited for the driver. You'll want to change the graphics regularly as I've been to firework displays with less visual impact.

The fun doesn't stop there as an eight-inch touchscreen sits above a bank of stylish toggle switches that allow you to access a raft of infotainment options and is also home to a high definition reversing camera. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure and blind spot alerts.

The dual zone climate control can also be accessed via the touchscreen ensuring a pleasant atmosphere is maintained at all times.

The refined interior also boasts posh ambient lighting, cloth-like trim finish across the dashboard as well as a mood changing fragrance diffuser.

There is plenty of storage space up front as a snazzy gear selector and electronic parking brake ensure room is created for a twin top opening storage box.

There are lots of other cubbies to store phones and wallets as well as room for a wireless smartphone charging point. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included.

Driver and passengers are carried in comfort in the five-seater as good leg and head room is available for all with those in the rear benefiting from a flat floor which means the 3008 can accommodate three adults without a battle for foot space.

The powered bootlid opens to reveal a well-shaped cave boasting a capacity of 591 litres which swallows golf clubs, trolley and a weekly supermarket shop with ease. There's a small amount of storage under the floor should you want to hide away any valuables from prying eyes.

Fold over the rear seats and a van-like 1,670-litre load bay is created.

The excellent cabin is backed up by a sharp-suited exterior with good-looking grille, muscular bodywork, raised ride height, natty alloys and eye-catching lights giving it the desired road presence.

Power in the front-wheel drive 3008 was provided here by a 1.6-litre petrol engine, linked to an efficient automatic transmission, which propels the 3008 from 0-62mph in eight seconds on its way to a top speed of 136mph.

It sips fuel fairly frugally boasting an official average consumption figure of around 50mpg with emissions of 128g/km.

An efficient suspension ensures most of the humps and hollows masquerading as roads these days are soaked up giving a comfortable ride while the handling is neat and precise with plenty of grip giving confidence in corners although there is a bit of body roll.