PEUGEOT 3008 1,6 THP ACTIVE AT

THE 3008 has quietly (in more ways than one) but confidently continued its quest to charm the CAR team. This month, features writer Wilhelm and photographer Peet (who snapped the lovely pic above) visited the Free State on assignment for a string of exciting upcoming magazine features and they raved about the Peugeot’s absorbent ride, classy interior and punchy 1,6-litre powertrain following the journey of 2 800 km.

Wilhelm also liked the general refinement at speed but commented on the quivering bonnet, especially in the backdraft of a passing truck. It’s something I’ve noticed too; I’ve checked and re- checked the hinges and lock, but they’re all sound. Must be down to a design quirk.

Later in the month, technical editor Nicol spent a week with the 3008 and I was eager to hear the comments from someone who drives a rival vehicle. Compared with his Kuga long-termer, Nicol appreciated the lower fuel consumption (although that’s taken a beating this month; I can only conclude our heavy-footed tech editor appreciated the 121 kw engine a touch more than he’d care to admit) and softer ride, although he mentioned the torsion-beamed 3008’s high-speed composure can be upset by abrupt surface scars.

On the topic of consumption, I find it curious this 3008 doesn’t have a fuel-saving stop/start function like the 308 tested on page 72, but I’m thankful, too, as it’s a feature that’s often more annoying than helpful.

Attentive readers might remember I mentioned in a previous update the 3008’s steering-wheel boss creaks and that Peugeot Cape Town promised to order a replacement for the cracked part causing the squeak and give me a ring when it arrives. That happened four months ago and I’ve yet to be contacted. The 15 000 km service is fast approaching and I’ll wait until then to have the steering wheel seen to. That should be the sole additional task on the job sheet, too, because this Peugeot feels rock solid and barely shows any use.