Latest Peugeot more MPV than SUV

Nov 2 2009 Peter Hayward

PEUGEOT'S latest is a new crossover aimed at families, but it's more an MPV than an SUV.

The 3008 does not offer four wheel drive, despite its high stance and chunky looks. The best it can offer is a trick traction control system to help its front wheel drive keep you going in slippery conditions.

Apart from that, there was one other drawback with the car - a very unsettled ride on some surfaces.

I found this most disappointing but the car I tried might have been a pre-production model and the finished article should be better.

The 3008 is like a raised 308 estate and comes with a choice of two 1.6 petrol engines and 1.6 or 2.0-litre diesels.

I drove the smooth and powerful 1.6 diesel which had plenty of power plus excellent economy. It also has tremendous road-holding and grip giving very safe cornering.

Interior

Inside, a large centre console between the front seats is an oddity these days but I grew to like it. An easy-open split tailgate gives good access to the big boot, there are column stereo controls and a rather useless glass moonroof that does not open.

Equipment in top models is excellent, with leather and even a head-up display which shows the speed reflected on the inside of the windscreen just where you can see it. Excellent.

FAST FACTS

Peugeot 3008

Price: £17,500

Mechanical: 110bhp, 1,560cc, 4 cylinder diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 112mph

0-62mph: 12.2 seconds

Combined mpg: 55

Insurance group: 5

CO2 emissions: 137g/km

BIK rating: 18%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles

Marks: 9/10

Main rival: Nissan Qashqai