THE diesel engine has come a long way since it was invented by German genius Rudolf Diesel in 1892 - a case in point being the oil burner in the 307 S HDi.
Rudolf intended the engine to use a variety of fuels including coal dust and peanut oil.
Obviously Peugeot's 1.6-litre unit would choke on this diet, but in every other respect it is a quantum leap from the patent that Diesel lodged on February 23, 1893.
Anyone looking at the 307 range would be foolish to bypass the HDi versions as they combine an impressive mix of economy and performance.
The 90 horses under the bonnet of the 307 do a good job of propelling the car from 0-62mph in 12.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 111mph.
But it is an average fuel consumption figure of 57.6mpg that will leave anyone who decides to buy it smiling as they drive past yet another petrol station.
The 307's predecessor, the 306, was a hoot to drive thanks to the agility of the chassis which gave it the manoeuvrability of a jet fighter.
But Peugeot's follow up to that legendary motor is bigger and therefore heavier which means it never quite hits those legendary heights.
Having said that the extra space created by the increased dimensions of the 307 means it fulfils its main role as a family hatchback far better.
The ride is comfortable with the suspension soaking up the humps and hollows that pass for roads these days, while excellent soundproofing mean little if any wind or road noise make it into the cabin.
In general there's plenty of space for front and rear seat occupants, but the sloping rear roofline does hinder headroom for tall passengers in the back although knee space and cabin width are good.
All the seats are firm and supportive with a good range of adjustment while the driver also benefits from instruments that are well set out and easy to use. There's also a fully adjustable driver's seat and steering wheel.
The 307 is renowned for its space with a number of clever storage ideas including under-seat drawers and large door bins.
With its semi-MPV style visibility is good, but the steep nose does hinder the driver's view when it comes to parking.
Split-fold rear seats allow a well shaped and sizeable boot to be expanded, but the width of the opening restricts what will fit in.
The 307 S is stuffed full of goodies including radio/CD player and steering wheel mounted stereo controls.
There's also air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, automatic rain sensing front wipers, automatic headlights, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, alloy wheels and trip computer.
Safety is obviously a high priority with a car squarely aimed at the family market and the 307 scores a four-star rating in the Euro NCAP safety classification.
This is thanks to features such as active front seat headrests that are fitted to all models to help prevent whiplash injuries.
Other equipment includes anti-lock brakes, with electronic brake force distribution.
To prevent theft, remote control central locking is fitted featuring a delayed automatic locking function which reduces the likelihood of a vehicle being left unintentionally unlocked.
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 307 S HDi 90 5dr
Price: £14,867
Mechanical: 90bhp, 1,560cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 111mph
0-62mph: 12.5 secs
Combined mpg: 57.6
Insurance group: 5
CO2 emissions: 129g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 12yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust