3008 is a top-notch SUV
WHEN it was first launched Peugeot expected 3,000 orders for its new 3008 SUV – but got over 10,000.
And having put one through its paces I can see why.
Not only is it sveltely good looking and purposeful but it drives well and easily on every kind of road.
It’s a complete change from the last 3008, which was more a people carrier than an SUV.
The new model is available with 1.2-litre and 1.6-litre turbo petrol engines producing 130bhp and 165bhp respectively, and 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre Blue HDi diesels with 120bhp and 150bhp.
I drove the 1.6 diesel with manual six-speed gearbox, but top models come with the company’s vastly improved EAT6 automatic as standard.
As well as its butch good looks and higher stance, all models come with the excellent new i-Cockpit, which is a driver adjustable digital instrument binnacle with a huge range of options.
Until now such instruments have been the reserve of upper executive cars like the Audi A4, but Peugeot has brought it to the mainstream and I’m sure it will appear in most of its other cars in due time.
The ride is generally good over all surfaces with excellent bump absorption and taut body control.
I drove the entry Allure, which is likely to be the best seller. It comes as standard with loads of airbags, alarm, stability and anti-skid control, cruise control and a clever driver alert system to warn of tiredness behind the wheel.
It also has hill-start assist, stop-start, an eight-inch touchscreen for many functions, multi-function steering wheel, alloys, DAB stereo, Bluetooth, lane departure warning and blind spot detection.
As mid-size SUVs go, this Peugeot is right at the top of the list. I would be happy to live with one.
The price of the Peugeot 3008 1.6 HDi Allure is £25,445.