Two years ago, Peugeot's newly launched 3008 came within a hair's breath of clinching The Straits Times Car of the Year award. It lost out by merely two points to the eventual winner - the Lexus LC500.

The compact crossover's high score was not surprising. It was extremely well put together, offered a high equipment level and drove exceedingly well. Its chassis exceeded all expectations and its progressive styling made the car stand out in a sea of SUVs.