THE Peugeot 307 is an interesting crossover between a family car and a compact MPV, thus managing to combine good driving habits with exceptional spaciousness and practicality.
It's also very well equipped and stylish, especially in this top-of-the-range Feline version. More of that in a minute.
The MPV ingredients are immediately noticeable. Behind the bold, wide-eyed Peugeot family face, introduced in last summer's update, lies a shortish, fall away aluminium bonnet leading to a big, steeply-angled windscreen and the high-domed roof.
The upshot is a cabin which, while it is eaten into by a sizeable dash, gives oddles of headroom. That vertical generosity has a knock-on effect in other dimensions, with rear legroom being particulary good.
A fair-sized boot is also generated, so immediately the 307 scores high marks as a family vehicle.
You can then add the facilities. The rear incorporates a pull-down armrest that includes storage space and drinks holders and other features include seat-back pockets, a power point, Isofix child-seat mounting points and heating/air conditioning outlets. Curtain airbags look after protection.
The front area also benefits from the wealth of stowage points, including, as it does, under-seat trays and air-conditioned glovebox.
Equipment levels are pretty good across the range - even the entry-level E-trim includes six airbags, reach and rake adjustable steering wheel, driver's seat height adjustment, electric front windows, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, split-folding rear seats, remote central locking with deadlocks, trip computer, variable power steering and an ABS system that includes electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist. Decor shows off an aluminium centre console.
The Feline, though, is something else. Dressage includes a full leather interior - seats, facia and door panels - white dials, dual-zone air conditioning, cruise control, a stability and traction programme, sports seats, leather sports steering wheel, aluminium gearshift knob, automatic headlights and wipers, five-disc CD autochanger with remote audio controls and, externally, 17in alloys, front foglights, rear spoiler and chrome exhaust pipe.
Those are just examples. In total the 307 Feline is absolutely crammed with goodies, while the layout is good - I particularly appreciated the info display in a central pod on top of the dash.
The real pleasure for me, though, is the 180bhp two-litre engine used exclusively in this trim. I've driven 307s before with lesser units and found them a bit ordinary. This engine is so right for the car.
Maximum torque is 152lb/ft which is attained at 4,750 revs, but there is ample pull further down the dial and performance proves lively, with standstill to 62mph clocking in at just over eight seconds.
Not only that, but it sounds attractively throaty, while not being intrusive. Most noise comes off those bigger tyres.
Drive is delivered through a five-speed manual gearbox and I did find myself wishing for a sixth. Economy is not wonderful - I recorded 31.3mpg over a week, not far off the official average - and highish emissions and insurance rating also dent the Feline's appeal.
There's a slightly sporty feel to the 307 ride, and handling is satisfactory, especially given the car's height. Anti-roll bars are fitted front and rear. Steering feel is fair and braking crisp.
The 307 hatchback is available in three and five-door form, with prices starting at £11,300 for the 1.4 16v E three-door.
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 307 FELINE 2.0 180 3dr
Price: £17,100
Mechanical: 180bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 137mph
0-62mph: 8.2 secs
Combined mpg: 33.6
Insurance group: 14
CO2 emissions: 200g/km
BiK rating: 27%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 12yrs paint; 12 years anti-rust