WITH dynamic styling with performance to match, along with a modern, feature-rich interior and impressive running costs, the new Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 really ups the ante in the SUV sector.

There's no denying the fact that this plug-in hybrid model is a looker when viewed from any angle.

Eye-catching features include a muscular, athletic profile, a distinctive black grille with silver inserts, the instantly recognisable claw-effect rear lights, a panoramic sunroof, LED daytime running lights, privacy glass, a black diamond roof and 19-inch two-tone alloys to complete the styling.

Move inside and the wow factor continues with a thoroughly modern cockpit that is very driver focused and packed to bursting with technology.

Creature comforts include Nappa leather quilted upholstery, a powered driver's seat, a compact steering wheel, smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay, a DAB digital radio, a navigation system and a neat touchscreen with toggle switches for shortcuts to the likes of the climate control, phone, sat nav and music.

But the really clever technology is the power source behind the 3008. This plug-in hybrid model features a 1.6-litre turbocharged 200hp petrol engine and two electric motors with each one driving an axle and producing additional horsepower.

The result is a car with 300hp and 450Nm of torque. And that power output means this practical family SUV can sprint from 0-62mph in a very creditable 6.1 seconds topping out at 149mph.

There are drive modes called Electric, Hybrid, Sport and AWD. Flick the car into Sport and the acceleration through the eight-speed gearbox is instant and there's ample power on tap for short bursts of pace to overtake.

The ride is comfortable and well-balanced meaning bends can be attacked with confidence and there's ample feedback from the nicely weighted steering wheel.

The road holding is assured and the cabin is well insulated against any road surface, engine or wind noise.

If the 13.2kWh battery is kept topped up, you can drive in EV mode for about 34 to 40 miles. And that electric power can be saved for later if you're planning on driving through low emission zones.

Charging the battery from a 7kW home charger will take less than two hours. And there is further good news too as the 3008 Hybrid4 has a low emissions figure of just 31g/km which brings with it all manner of financial savings, particularly for business drivers.

On the downside, this is not a cheap car to buy, especially the all-singing four-wheel-drive (4WD) version in GT specification with a price-tag of £46,750 (increased to £47,745 on this car with a few optional extras).

But that aside, this is an excellent all-round family car with room in the back for two adults to sit comfortably - or three if they don't mind rubbing shoulders. The boot capacity is 520 litres, which can be increased to 1,482 litres by lowering the 60:40 split-folding rear seats.

There are plenty of convenient storage compartments scattered throughout the car, including deep cup holders front and rear, door bins, a central cubby box, a glovebox and nets in the seat backs.

The 3008 Hybrid4 is packed with safety kit and driver assist systems to help protect occupants, pedestrians and also reduce the chance of accidents happening in the first place. On-board systems include blind spot detection, driver attention alert, active lane keep assistance and a full suite of airbags.