In addition to a top five-star Euro NCAP crash-test rating, the Peugeot 207 safety portfolio includes dual front, side and curtain airbags (with the exception of the entry Urban model), five three-point seatbelts, two Isofix childseat anchor points and strong side and front impact protection. Key security features include remote central locking with deadlocks, automatic locking once the car reaches 6mph and an immobiliser.

A Thatcham Category 1 alarm is standard on the GT and GTi, but optional on other models.

It’s easier to access the rear of the five-door than the three, as is the case with most hatchbacks. There’s an average-sized glovebox with sub compartments (which act as a coolbox on air-conditioned models), a couple of cupholders and door bins. The boot is also only average, capable of carrying two large suitcases but on the plus side the seats split 60/40 and it’s possible to remove the bases of the seats and fold the seat backs down so the boot floor is flush with the backs of the seats.

However this process isn’t as quick – or easy – as more flexible alternatives like the Honda Jazz.