Peugeot 2008 safety has been tested by Euro NCAP and the car did very well, achieving five stars.

All 2008 models come with ESP and six airbags as standard, while the optionally available Peugeot Connect SOS is a useful addition.

In the event of a major accident where the airbags are deployed, the GPS based device will call the local emergency services operators – in their native language – and inform them of the car’s position.

If a serious accident is witnessed that doesn’t involve the 2008 the occupants of the car can operate the device manually and for minor incidents the system will provide a direct link to the appropriate breakdown services.

At around 200mm longer, Peugeot 2008 practicality is something of a strongpoint for this crossover. However, the extra length isn’t to be found in the wheelbase – that remains the same for hatchback and this compact ‘off-roader’ – but in the nose and boot.

And you’ll certainly notice the extra space in the load area, the boot usefully shaped and able to accommodate up to 360-litres of luggage with the seats in place or 1,172 with them folded. The good news is they fold flat too, all at the pull of a single lever.

Otherwise there isn’t much to write home about in terms of cabin storage, save for the air-conditioned glovebox and relatively capacious door bins in the front.

However, even with the front seats set in their lowest position, there’s an almost extraordinarily large amount of foot space to be found unerneath them for rear seat passengers.