An exclusive for Peugeot

I had to explain the new Peugeot 3008 was not in fact my property, but I was collecting it for appraisal.

I did explain that I had previously tried the 3008 on a launch exercise.

For them as they had just ordered one, not only was it a new experience as they currently owned the hatchback Peugeot 307, but they would be the owners of a diesel powered vehicle for the first time.

Peugeot has aimed the 3008 at sport-loving couples, modern families, senior citizens and active young people who desire a type of car which does not fall into existing categories, such as hatchbacks and MPVs.

The 3008 is based on Peugeot’s short wheelbase platform 2, which was chosen due to its exceptional rigidity and excellent acoustic and vibration properties. The structure has been carefully designed to provide maximum secondary safety as well as provide a structure with the same level of rigidity as that of a saloon. To reduce emissions and, therefore fuel consumption and running costs, the weight of the vehicle was kept to a minimum. The streamlined headlamps are expressive in a new and original way, both dynamic and reassuring and the single front grille helps create the effect of a luxury off-roader, with a look reminiscent of the world of the SUV. The wings at the rear with their structured curves blend smoothly with the ruby coloured rear lights with their hi-tech finish, indicating the presence of light emitting diodes.

Another feature is a split rear tailgate as on the 4007. The interior is quality and driving position resembles in many ways that of an aircraft cockpit and the fascia is uncluttered and elegant allowing a particularly good view of the outside.

There are three trim levels, Active, Sport and Exclusive. My test example was the top of the line Exclusive version. With a price tag short of 21,000 it certainly represents good value. However this particular vehicle had a number of options, such as Grey leather trim (1,025), metallic paint (410), Peugeot Connect Navigation (715) and Grip Control with 17 inch special energy saving tyres (460). Comfort is a major feature of the 3008, both driver and front seat passenger benefit from a raised seating position. In addition, rear passengers have ample leg room and occupants also benefit from the light coming from the large glazed area.

An optional or standard glass panoramic roof is also available. More positive news, inside the 3008 offers occupants nearly 50 litres of storage space, three 12V power connections and according to the version, the rear occupants can also benefit from side sun-blinds and or dark tinted windows.

Access is made easy by the split tailgate of which the lower tailgate flap can become a seat or be used to support a weight of 200 kg. Inside the load area floor can easily be compartmentalised thanks to the cleverly designed floor with its three adjustable positions. The load area has a constant width of 1,030 mm and a capacity of 512 litres or 1604 litres with the rear seats folded.

Available as standard on all engines, the 3008 is fitted with an electric parking brake enabling additional storage space to be created in the centre console. Combined with the electronic handbrake the 3008 is also available with Hill Assist for greater convenience and safety. I have already mentioned Grip Control; this is an innovative system able to control the front wheels to optimal effect, this helps where the wheels have little grip.

Directional bi-xenon headlamps, front and rear parking assistance, variable speed limiter / cruise control, tyre under-inflation detection, electric folding door mirrors, automatic headlamps / wipers and the full range of Peugeot’s in-car entertainment and telematics systems are all available on the 3008.

Electro-hydraulic power steering is fitted to all models, which varies the assistance according to the speed of the car, speed of rotation of the steering wheel and the temperature of the power steering fluid. Six engines are offered from launch, two petrol and four diesels.

I was very impressed with the 1.6 litre diesel with 110bhp which powered my test vehicle. Looking at performance, top speed is 112mph and rest to 62mph comes up in 12.2 seconds and to the all important fuel economy, just short of 58mpg on the combined fuel cycle.