In the hunt Paul Acres

Gives his verdict on Peugeot’s new compact SUV, the 3008

The new 3008 is convincingly rugged with broad, flat surfaces, raised waistline, sharp creases and black plastic cladding around the wheel arches and on the bumpers. The proportions are nicely balanced, the wide grille framed by fine projector headlights and LED daytime running lights giving the 3008 a feline look.

Chrome inserts sweep back from the headlights to the base of the upright windscreen creating a sense of fluidity, of motion. The signature rear lights, which are meant to resemble a lion’s claw, are integrated into a glossy black strip.

The first thing that grabs your attention as you climb behind the wheel is how cosseting the cabin feels, from the driver’s perspective at least. The dashboard wraps around you, placing all the controls within easy reach.

Peugeot have adopted their “small steering wheel, high-set instrument cluster” layout for the 3008 and, while not as bad, the same issue with finding the ideal driving position without obscuring a portion of the binnacle that now houses a 12.3in digital display instead of analogue gauges remains.

Peugeot have clothed the interior with a variety of softtouch fabrics that give it a homely, welcoming ambience. There has clearly been a focus on detail, with delightful piano key-style switches adorning the centre console beneath the 8in capacitive touchscreen.

It runs the latest version of Peugeot’s Connect infotainment system. The 8in touchscreen is standard across the range, although base models have to make do without sat nav. It does, however, come with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink compatibility.

The Connect system also offers DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity and, in the GT Line version that I was testing, a wealth of high-end features clustered around the Amplify system, including multi-point massage seats and a fragrance dispenser.

The view from the front seats, then, is pleasant, warm and welcoming and that ambience is extended to rear seat passengers who will enjoy ample head and leg room.

Under the bonnet of my GT Line test car was Peugeot’s 1.2litre three-cylinder PureTech 130 petrol engine, with 129bhp and 230Nm on tap. It’s available with either 6-speed automatic or manual gearboxes. I got to try out the manual.

It’s a sweet little engine and works surprisingly well partnered with the 3008. It’s quiet at low speeds but will emit a sportier sound when pushed. It’s quite punchy, too, with 62mph arriving in a respectable 10.8seconds.

The manual gearbox is a delight. It’s slick and precise and the ratios are well-judged.

The ride is on the firm side of comfortable. The car is composed through bends, with excellent body control and plenty of grip.

The steering has a nice weight to it and a reasonable amount of feel.

While the styling might be a little divisive, I think it’s one of the better-looking compact SUVs on the market and there’s little doubt that the looks lend the car a little gravitas, something to set it apart in what is a crowded marketplace.

The interior is magnificent, the clever use of fabrics makes the cabin a kind of place you don’t mind spending time in. Passenger and boot space is excellent, with plenty of room for four adults and their luggage.

The 3008 has got it’s work cut out but, judging by the number I’ve seen out in the wild, it’s proving up to the challenge.