YOU'LL get more than you bargained for with the latest Peugeot 307 XSi 136.
It looks familiar, but under the skin is the very latest generation powertrain providing the cleanest emissions and most driver friendly features.
Drive it hard and the sophisticated turbo-charged two-litre engine spins up to its task, but suddenly ask for more power and it punches it out thanks to an "overboost" system which provides a momentary surge of additional pulling power.
It is all part of a very sophisticated injection system which uses common-rail technology but utilises a series of nozzles for specific purposes, a variable geometry turbo and 16v aluminium cylinder head.
At the other end of the engine, Peugeot has bolted on a six-speed box to maximise economy, minimise noise and deliver greater refinement.
It all sounds very good and it should be. Except it isn't. In Peugeot's quest for compliance with the latest emissions' legislation and need to compete with rivals it is struggling with what is now a dated car in terms of room, ride quality and refinement.
The powertrain modifications have actually done little to improve the feel of the car and its diesel heart, or subdue its familiar clatter in certain conditions. If you want to make progress you also have to stir it along on the gearstick as it's not a particularly flexible engine in its latest incarnation.
Seats are among the most comfortable in any medium sized hatchback and their front seat armrests make you think you could be at home, so every journey is well insulated but you still get many road shocks jolting the occupants and it is a distinctly firm chassis, although it is not a sports hatch.
Both steering and brakes also lack finesse and feedback. Secondary controls work well and the instruments are simple and clear, backed by warning lights.
I liked the straightforward air conditioning, heating and ventilation system which worked well backed up by the powered windows with their anti-trap sensor on the five-door version tested.
You will also appreciate the automatic headlights and wipers, the powered and heated mirrors and self-dipping mirror. These are to be applauded but it is time the 307's overall chassis and its design was updated.
Through the gears the acceleration is good but not outstanding and it seems to take ages to get going. It also feels heavy and not agile, particularly around town where over the shoulder visibility is not good if you have to park in a small space.
The 307 feels soggy and not particularly responsive on open roads but it proved how economical it was, easily getting better than 50mpg despite some hard use.
And that is probably where the strength of the car lies; in its ability to economically and comfortably cover motorway miles with features which make it less stressful than many cars over a long journey through variable weather conditions.
The latest engine and transmission have improved the car, and it will be appreciated by existing 307 diesel owners, but whether it is good enough to win over drivers from rival models is less sure.
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 307 XSi HDi 136 5dr
Price: £17,220
Mechanical: 136bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 126mph
0-62 mph: 9.8 secs
Combined mpg: 52.3
Insurance group: 11
CO2 emissions: 142g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60, 000 miles; 12yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint