There's only one engine - a variation of the 2.2-litre diesel unit found in Peugeot's 407 family saloon. It has been detuned slightly to 154bhp, but pulling muscle has been boosted to 280lb ft. There's a good amount of urge away from a standing start, but it's the 4007's flexibility on-the-move that most impresses.

The 4007 can be switched between front- and four-wheel drive, but Peugeot's top priority is on-road manners. It shows - body lean is tightly controlled, particularly for a 4x4, and although the steering is a bit short on feedback, it's precise and nicely weighted. The ride is firm, but isn't harsh, but the abrupt clutch can be a pain in stop-start traffic.

Whether you're accelerating hard or cruising down the motorway, the engine stays impressively smooth and quiet. Wind and road noise are a bit more audible at speed, but neither is bad enough to really test your patience on a long journey.

With prices starting at almost £23,000, the 4007 isn't cheap, but you should have little difficulty securing a discount. It's unlikely to retain its value as well as the class leaders, but running costs are competitive. The 4007 averages 39.2mpg on the standard 16-inch alloy wheels, and 38.7mpg on the range-topping GT's 18-inch wheels.

The cabin isn't as classy as a Land Rover Freelander's, but the materials are smart and everything feels solid, so it should wear the miles well. We don't expect the 4007 to experience many mechanical problems, either. Peugeot has upped its game in recent reliability surveys, and Mitsubishi's involvement should make the car more robust.

The 4007's four-wheel-drive system gives it fine traction in slippery conditions, and you get electronic brakeforce distribution and stability control. All models have six airbags, too. An alarm, immobiliser and deadlocks are provided to keep your car safe from thieves.

The steering wheel only adjusts for height, but most drivers will find it easy enough to make themselves comfortable because there's plenty of seat adjustment to compensate. The high driving position gives a pretty good view out, too. The dash is neat and uncluttered, and the switchgear is clearly marked and well placed.

Use the 4007 as a five-seater and you won't be disappointed. Cabin space is generous, and the two sections of the folding rear bench slide and recline individually. Two more seats are stowed under the boot floor, but these have little padding and knee space is extremely tight. The boot also shrinks to miniscule proportions when the rearmost seats are up, but it's a good size when they're stowed. The split rear tailgate is a bonus.

There are two trims, and even the entry SE models come well kitted. You get alloy wheels, front and rear electric windows, climate and cruise control and an MP3-compatible CD player. Stepping up to the range-topping GT model brings bigger alloy wheels, as well as luxuries such as electrically adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, a CD multichanger and parking sensors.