Lots to brag about

The newest versions are bluring boundaries and creating something really special. Crossovers are perfect for drivers who want a vehicle with all the power and less of the bulk of your average SUV.

Introducing the Peugeot 3008 ... boasting interior quality which is a step up from your average crossover.

It's a practical car and would be great for families. There is plenty of space and a long list of safety credentials to boot, oh and did I mention the boot? The 3008 is based on the 308 hatchback design but it's longer and taller with more space behind the rear wheels to allow for a larger boot, perfect for the weekly trip to the supermarket.

This nippy little number boasts a surprising amount of power for a 1.6 litre engine and on the road the 3008 does all the important things well.

Thanks to its comfortable ride, decent body control and good grip there are no white-knuckle moments when negotiating traffic on Bahrain's often perilous roads. The 120 BHP (88.32 KW) engine really did surprise me with the amount of power it can deliver, at one point I almost forgot I was in a family-orientated crossover vehicle.

Once inside there is little wind or road noise and the engine is smooth and quiet when cruising along, leaving you to enjoy the onboard entertainment system. There's no faulting the equipment, the 3008 boasts electric windows, remote central locking and duel air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 compatibility as standard.

There's not a lot wrong with the 3008 but if I had to pick holes, I'd say that the exterior offers very little to differentiate itself from most other crossovers.

Also, the central cubby-hole between the driver and front passenger is only accessible from one side, which is a slight draw back.

The treasures remain inside. The best thing about the 3008 is the cockpit, which simply put, is superb. It's very cozy, everything is to hand and I love the head-up instrument display, which projects information onto a screen at windscreen level. This feature is brilliant not only because it's useful, but for someone like me who is slightly short-sighted, it means I can drive without my glasses and don't have to worry about not seeing the instrument panel.

This vehicle is proof that it's possible to combine sporty driving dynamics with added safety.

Prices start from BD8,900

For further details contact Zayani Motors Sitra showroom on 17703703.