IN the past, Peugeot was not necessarily a name you would associate with off-roading or producing 4x4 vehicles.
But that was then and this is now, so welcome to the chunky 4007, packed with powerful 'bring-it-on' features.
Designed in co-ordination with Mitsubishi, the 4007 is Peugeot's first venture into the sports utility vehicle market and it has certainly made quite an impression.
From the outside, you are immediately drawn to the rugged design features with a front-end grille that looks like it's baring its teeth at you. The light clusters are neatly streamlined sweeping around and over the side of the bonnet. Roof bars, tinted windows and beefy 18in alloys simply add to the finishing touches.
Inside, the 4007 boasts an excellent level of sophistication and luxury, especially in the top-of-the-range GT model supplied for my test drive.
There is soft leather upholstery throughout which combines beautifully with the black fascia panel and aluminium-coloured finish. Features include automatic air conditioning, parking sensors, cruise control and a ear-bursting sound system to name just a few.
Then once you get over the stunning design and spec, the drive itself also lives up to all expectations.
The 4007 boasts electronically-controlled two or four-wheel-drive, which means it is fully capable of dealing with the rougher roads but can be driven more economically most of the time in two-wheel-drive. There is also a 'lock' driving position for the most extreme driving conditions whereby more torque is distributed to the rear wheels than in normal four-wheel mode.
The drive itself is a smooth comfortable one both in and around town and out on the more open road. The seven-seater offers generous room and the versatile seating plan means larger objects can easily be accommodated.
The handling is first class with the 2.2-litre engine delivering ample power and with its high-seated driving position, all-round visibility is excellent.
As one would expect, the safety specification on the 4007 is outstanding with anti-lock brakes, electronic stability programme, numerous airbags including curtain airbags for rows one and two, plus a great alarm system to keep away any unwanted attention.
All in all, Peugeot's first venture into the SUV market has to be described as a resounding success and one that will surely put the frighteners on rivals such as Toyota's RAV4 and the Land Rover Freelander.
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 4007 GT 2.2 HDi
Price: £25,945
Mechanical: 156bhp, 2,179cc, 4cyl diesel engine with 6-speed manual gearbox.
Max speed: 124mph
0-62mph: 9.9 seconds
Combined mpg: 38.6
Insurance group: 13
CO2 emissions: 194g/km
BIK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles