12: Peugeot 3008 – French brand shows it has got its mojo back

To say that Peugeot is going through something of a renaissance would be rather like saying that Medici Florence was reasonably interesting, in terms of its architecture.

While there are still some gaps in the model range, the French brand is slowly getting back to the sort of levels of respect and admiration that it enjoyed in the 1980s.

And the 3008 crossover is emblematic of the entire process. Peugeot could have created something much more ordinary than this as its Qashqai rival, but instead it pushed the boat out quite some considerable distance.

The 3008 mixes sharp styling, a dramatic interior with the hexagonal (and to be honest slightly awkward) steering wheel, all-digital instruments and the best build quality we’ve seen from the brand in… well, ever really.

13: Toyota C-HR – Remarkably stylish entry from the Japanese brand

---

14: Citroen C3 Aircross – Comfort is key selling point in this spacious supermini

---

15: BMW i3 – Silly price for a small car but it’s an icon of futuristic engineering

---

16: Opel Astra – Still the saving grace for the German brand after a torrid year

---

Thankfully, it does all the expected practical people-and-chattels hauling stuff, but it’s also engaging to drive and best sampled with the excellent 130hp 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine.

Best model: 1.2 130hp PureTech Allure

Prices start from: €26,595

Finance package from: €POA

CO2 emissions: €279

Sum-up: Some of Peugeot's best work in decades