If you are looking for a small SUV there is no better choice than the Peugeot 2008 and if you don’t believe me then ask the thousands of customers who took part in this year’s Auto Express Driver Power survey.

The survey is the biggest motoring satisfaction report of its type, with participation from more than 70,000 UK car owners who were asked to judge their car in a host of crucial areas.

The 2008 SUV scooped the Gold award in the highly competitive Small SUV category, beating all of its competitors. And if you need further proof go to Vauxhall because they have just produced the Crossland X which is a virtual copy of the 2008.

A huge success story since its launch in 2013, with 69,000 sold in the UK, the 2008 combines style and innovation with a range of efficient, high performance engines.

Driver Power respondents gave the 2008 SUV an outstanding overall rating of 91.45 percent, with owners’ feedback placing it first out of all its competitors in five categories: Engine & Gearbox, Exterior, Safety Features, MPG & Running Costs, Reliability & Build Quality.

A feature that has proven highly desirable is the 2008’s i-cockpit which embodies the driving characteristics of the car, being agile, intuitive and safe. It features a compact sports steering wheel which offers precise steering and manoeuvrability, which is teamed with a seven multifunction colour touchscreen, comprising, android auto, Apple CarPlay and Mirror Link. In addition, the head-up instrument panel allows driver information to be accessed without taking the eyes off the road.

Innovation is not just limited to the interior, Grip Control - an adapted traction control system – gives the 2008 versatility on all types of terrain.

Equipment includes (subject to trim level) 3D Connected Satellite Navigation, reversing camera, and Park Assist.

The Euro 6 engines such as the 1.2L PureTech 130 Stop&Start another big hit with Driver Power respondents, ensure high-level driving pleasure while remaining fuel efficient.

Steve Fowler, editor-in-chief at Auto Express said: “The 2008's Gold award shows how happy customers are with modern Peugeots. Both the 2008 and the 108 scored highly across the board, showing the brand has a clear understanding of its customer’s needs and desires."

David Peel, Peugeot’s MD said: “In a competitive segment, for our valued customers to say that the 2008 SUV is the best small SUV on the market just vindicates all the hard work put in by our talented teams of designers and engineers.”

As well as the Crossland X the 2008 competes against the Citroen C4 Cactus, the Renault Captur, Kia Soul and Nissan Juke. All of these are front-wheel drive. There is no four-wheel drive option but there are many different engines and trim options to choose from.

I had the 1.2 pure tech 130 GT line litre petrol but the 2008 is available in three outputs, badged 82, 110 and 130 and there is a 1.6 BlueHDi diesel available in three power outputs – 75, 100 and 120. Prices vary from £16,300 to £22,130.

Bimbling along the town or country lanes or a quick rush down the motorway the 2008 is a delight. The steering is light which makes it easy to nip in and out of lanes and parking is that much easier. Top speed is 124mph and 0-60mph is just under 10 seconds.

The 1.2 petrol is both smooth and nice and quiet with good suspension and the manual gearbox has six gears while the autobox has just five. Front parking sensors aren’t available on any 2008, even as an option. Rear sensors come as standard from Allure trim.

Peugeot has fitted a large cubbyhole covered by a sliding cover, which is perfect for storing your phone, keys and wallet. The 2008 is spacious in the back when compared with other small SUVs and tall adults have good head room.

The 2008 has a 360-litre boot and the floor sits flush with its lip and once folded, the rear seats lie completely flat, which makes it easier to slide long items in.

Since 1810 Peugeot has been producing wonderfulproducts of excellence, since 1858 all are branded with the Lion logo – chosen to demonstrate strength, suppleness and swiftness to personify the durability of its products.

As one of the earliest automotive producers, the Peugeot brand can trace its roots back to 1889 when it began producing automobiles and since then more than 65 million vehicles have been produced, advancing technology with style and efficiency to enhance the customer experience. Peugeot is present in 160 countries, has 10,000 franchised dealerships and is recognised the world over for the quality and design excellence of its products.

The UK is the third largest market for Peugeot with its UK HQ in Coventry.

The UK car line-up includes the 108, 208, 308, 508, 2008, 3008 and 5008 supplemented by people-carriers and a four-model van range that includes the Bipper, Partner, Expert and Boxer.