This new top of the range model will be powered by the 1.6 litre turbo-charged 128 kW petrol engine, previously found in the 207 GTi. Willing, responsive and highly flexible, the engine develops peak torque at only 1,600 rpm and is fitted with a new 6-speed manual gearbox. Well credentialed, the 1.6 turbo-charged engine has won its category two years running at the International Engine of the Year Awards.

In keeping with the dynamic nature of the engine, the exterior of the XTS model introduces a number of new features. The lower front bumper panel has a unique appearance which is combined with a rear spoiler and a reduced overall ride height even though the car sits on 18” alloy wheels. Xenon directional headlamps, front fog lamps and a chrome exhaust tip complete the picture.

The interior is a comfortable, safe and inviting place to be, with premium sports seats with leather bolsters, a standard panoramic glass roof, an aluminium gear knob and foot pedals as well as a new steering wheel design trimmed in leather. Dual zone climate control, Bluetooth, a tyre pressure warning system and trip computers are just some of the standard features designed to aid driver convenience.

As ever, safety is a Peugeot strong point, and the XTS benefits from 7 airbags as standard as well as ESP including EBFD and ABS. The 308 was awarded 5 stars in EuroNCAP crash testing.