The first version of Peugeot’s 3008 found success as a spacious five-seat people carrier, but since its launch the market has swayed dramatically in favour of SUVs. The new model is a lot more stylish than its predecessor, with a front end inspired by the 308 hatch and 2008 small crossover that came before it, while the high sides and small window area give it a sportier look than some rival crossovers.
Peugeot is also making big noises about its aspirations to be a premium manufacturer, and nowhere is that more in evidence than the 3008’s impressive interior.
Inside, the 3008 is more akin to a motor show concept car, with its plentiful mix of materials and avant-garde design. I think the 3008 has the best interior ever fitted in a Peugeot, with a modern design, lots of style and an attractive eight-inch infotainment display above the dashboard.
Trim levels are Active, Allure, GT Line and GT, with each costing around £2,000 more if you decide to upgrade. For most customers, Allure offers a good blend of value and kit.
Head room is good, although the panoramic sunroof eats into it noticeably, and while the glovebox is small there are plenty of other useful storage spaces up front.
Most of the surfaces are soft to the touch, and those that aren’t tend to be hidden low down. There’s an eclectic mix of materials that work harmoniously to enhance the ambience, including chrome highlights around the centre console and, depending on which trim you opt for, attractive cloth or wood inserts across the dashboard and on the doors.
At night the cabin is bathed in the cultivated glow from the all-round ambient lighting, if you choose all but the entry-level trim.
With the rear seats in place there’s plenty of leg room for one tall adult to sit behind another. The boot has a good size( 520-litre) and features an adjustable floor as standard to let you choose between a flat loading lip or extra capacity. Provided it is in its raised position, it also gives a flat load bay when the rear seats are folded.
In an impressive move, every 3008 is fitted with the brand’s 12.3-inch ‘i-Cockpit’ digital instrument display, which is usually an option, even with expensive models like the Audi Q5.
The 1.6-litre THP petrol is automatic-only and has 163bhp. That means it goes from 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds but it’s not as efficient at the smaller 1.2-litre unit.
A likely top-seller will be the 1.6-litre BlueHDi 120 diesel, which has 118bhp. It’s got plenty of performance, going from 0-100km/h in 11.2 seconds (11.6s with the automatic) and is quiet at idle, if a little rattly as you bring the revs up.
Peugeot has found a great balance between body control and ride comfort for the 3008, which on 18- and even 19-inch wheels give a comfortable drive.
Rear visibility is restricted on account of the high window line. Thankfully all models have rear parking sensors, while upgrading to Allure also brings a reversing camera.
However, it remains secure, grips well, and stays light and manageable around town and I loved to drive it on highways
Peugeot has done a great job here. The Peugeot 3008 is a strong contender in the SUV class.
The Peugeot 3008 is now better than ever, and is up there with the best cars in the crossover class. Yet beyond the visual stimuli, the Peugeot 3008 is practical, cheap to run and good to drive.
