Peugeot moves upmarket

a modicum of 4x4 ability without compromising everyday fuel economy.

The new 3008 is bigger and chunkier than the original, looks very modern and will also be available in the two-tone body finish that Peugeot calls Coupe Franche first seen on the 308 GTi hot hatch.

In the SUV set the new 3008 is a smart offering and is serious about its status with 22cm of ground clearance, an approach limit of 20 degrees and a departure angle of 29 - credible off road figures and backed up with hill descent control. But it is on the inside where the new 3008 excels and the driving environment is out on its own.

A high console, sculpted gear lever and a bank of toggle switches set below an eight-inch colour touchscreen form the centre of the cockpit while the steering wheel is smaller than the norm allowing the new look instrument cluster to stand proud.

Five displays can be scrolled through ranging from traditional dials and gauges to a 3D map for the sat nav and the way the full colour graphics cascade around the screen is almost as entertaining as it is functional.

And to appeal to city centre commuters, Peugeot has teamed up with scooter company Micro to fit the 3008 with a docking station to house a foldaway electric e-Kick scooter in the boot, recharging on the go. The scooter has a 7.5 mile range and can travel at up to 15mph.

It’s the best Peugeot for years and although prices for the full range have still to be announced first impressions are that the 3008 has the potential to become the new pacesetter in the currently booming crossover club.