Peugeot 307 SW SE Estate

The key to the SW’s flexibility is its modular seating system. The three individual sliding seats across the centre of the car can be folded flat, jack-knifed into an upright position behind the driver and front seat passenger, relocated to accommodate just two passengers in the centre row, or even removed altogether to leave two separate folding/removable occasional seats (available as £165 accessories) in the rear. There are three-point seatbelts for each of the seven seats and for some reason kids never seem to tire of sitting “up back” inthe third row — for them it has all the cachet of travelling first class.

Up close the first thing people notice is the panoramic glass roof stretching from the top of the windscreen to just above the third row of seats — mesmerising on starry nights. Actually, one third of the307 SW’s total body area is glazed.

Heat-insulting glass, the standard fit air-conditioning/climate control system, and a neat electric blind ensures the family won’t get a grilling come summer.

The light and airy cabin is generously kitted out with four, one-touch electric windows, trip computer, six speakers, steering column audio controls, and a 5-disc CD autochanger built into the dash — great for changing CDs without stopping the car to remove everything from the boot.

Good quality materials are used throughout and, together with the high levels of fit and finish, ensure the 307’s interior is a comfortable and pleasing place to spend time. A pollen filter and charcoal trap keep the smell of the traffic where