77: Peugeot 308 – A smart hatchback sadly overshadowed by the SUV trend

The 308 has become rather over-shadowed by its SUV siblings (what conventional hatch or saloon has not, of late?) but as with so many of its rivals, it still represents a sensible purchase, for many, than a taller, supposedly more practical crossover. It’s also a very good looking car, arguably the best looking of the five-door hatch brigade, which lends it a sheen of extra desirability.

The interior is well-made and slightly spartan, with few physical buttons and most of the controls moved onto the slightly fiddly touchscreen. Not all appreciate the small-wheel, high-set-dials cockpit layout, but it certainly looks and feels different, which is a good thing.

Handling and ride are decent, and the engines - the 1.2 PureTech turbo petrol is the standout - better than decent. SW estate is usefully roomier than the hatch, while the 270hp GTI model is invigorating, to say the least.

Best model: Allure 1.2 PureTech 130hp SW