SUPERMINI estates are a rare breed these days, but Peugeot prides itself on offering an estate version of every major model in its extensive range.

The Outdoor version of the 207 SW is even more unusual.

It is not just the range-topping trim level, it’s a pseudo off-roader with an elevated suspension and Audi-esque wheel arch extensions made from toughened black plastic.

It is steadfastly front-wheel drive but certainly looks the part, while the extra ground clearance (16mm at the front and 21mm at the rear) gives it an edge traversing poorly-surfaced country lanes or crossing a field.

The practical body suits the 207 just fine. The reverse kink created by the large rear tail-lights and the hatchback’s glass area is a particularly stylish touch. In fact, I’d go so far as to say I think the SW looks better than the standard supermini.

Although the Outdoor sits on the same wheelbase, it is far more practical.

The tailgate glass can be opened separately and loading heavy objects is a cinch thanks to the lowered sill. There are floor runners to make sliding big loads into the boot easier and a cargo net for fragile valuables. Plus, you’ll find an extra six litres of space underneath a false floor.

The parcel shelf concertinas up if you need to carry something particularly tall and has to be removed before you drop the rear seats.

The rears have a one-touch folding mechanism – the seat base automatically flips as you fold the backs down to create a flat load area.

The Outdoor also gains an enormous glass roof which really floods the cabin with sunlight.

An electrically-operated blind works to keep the sun’s rays out on really hot days.

Distinctive aluminium roof bars increase the Outdoor’s practicality still further and make carrying a ski box or bicycles worryfree.

The car on test was fitted with Peugeot's 1.6-litre Hdi engine.

With 110bhp on tap in high power guise (there’s a 90bhp version, too) the diesel has as much punch as the 1.6 petrol, but stretches a gallon more than 50 miles. The carbon exhaust emissions figure is good, too.

The Hdi range has always been at the cutting edge of diesel tech among European manufacturers.

It’s an excellent motorway cruiser, with particularly good refinement, and has plenty of low down urge for smart getaways around town.

The raised ride height hasn’t compromised the handling as much as it could. Most of the time you’ll hardly notice the extra roll into corners.

Although the driving position is generally good, and I had no comfort problems, I missed a clutch footrest.

The satellite navigation system is always a handy extra to have but it can’t search on a full six digit postcode and got me hopelessly lost on a trip to Newby Hall, near Ripon, when it didn’t recognise a one-way system.

The audio system has a decent sound and locks on to weak signals very well indeed. I liked the way the radio data transmission is used to scroll information about the programme you are listening to.

Lots of thought has gone into the 207 SW Outdoor, particularly in the versatile boot and folding seat arrangement.

It’s also well equipped and better looking than its ordinary siblings.

Among other manufacturers only the Skoda Roomster Scout offers something similar, but that car’s bizarre styling would point me in the direction of my Peugeot dealer every time.

Specifications

Price: £15,920
Engine: 1,560cc Tdi
Max power: 110bhp @ 4,000rpm
Max torque: 180 ft/lb @ 1,750rpm
Top speed: 117mph
0-62mph: 11.7 seconds
Fuel consumption: 54.3mpg combined
Equipment: Electric windows, air conditioning, radio/CD system with remote controls, panoramic sunroof.

Extras fitted to test car: metallic paint, rear parking sensors, electric folding mirrors