What's all this about?
Peugeot has unveiled an all-new 3008 crossover that couldn't be more different from the car that currently carries the same name. Peugeot has created a new five-seater that it hopes will rival the likes of the Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan.
So what is so different with this new model?
From the outset this is a clean-sheet design. Nothing has been carried over or even really evolved from the existing 3008. Other than the name of course. It uses a version of the platform that already underpins the company's 308 hatchback and estate.
How does it compare to the previous 3008?
The new Peugeot 3008 crucially has more presence. Width remains the same at 1.84m and it has grown in length by 8cm, but height has actually been reduced ever so slightly by 1cm. It is in the styling where the biggest changes come, with Peugeot upping the stakes with a much more striking design. Aside from the three-dimensional grille and sleek headlights the appearance of a floating roofline thanks to a C-pillar painted in gloss black has more than a whiff of Lexus RX about it, which isn't necessarily a bad thing.
What is it like inside?
From a practical standpoint the new 3008 will still only seat five, but the new car does provide generous levels of space for passengers, especially in the rear. Two Isofix points in the rear should still leave enough room for a small passenger in the middle. Boot space is 520 litres and this can be expanded to 1,580 litres by folding down the rear seat backs.
And up front?
This is where the Peugeot 3008 is most likely to impress. All models will feature a 12.3-inch colour screen in place of the traditional dashboard instruments. The technology looks just like that used in more upmarket cars like the Audi TT and Q7. Along with this, the smaller-than-usual steering wheel remains, but is now flatter across its top and does feel nicer in your hands. The centre console will also feature an eight-inch colour touchscreen that will handle all of the infotainment systems. Access to the different menu screens is also possible by the six different shortcut buttons at the base of the screen. Overall the interior looks and feels of a quality not seen before from Peugeot, which can only be a good thing.
What about the engine range?
Buyers will have a choice of two petrol engines, starting with a 130hp 1.2-litre PureTech available with both manual or automatic transmissions. A more powerful 165hp 1.6-litre THP petrol will be on offer for those looking for something a bit faster. On the diesel front there will be 100- and 120hp versions of the 1.6-litre BlueHDi engine and a punchier 2.0-litre diesel with 150- or 180hp outputs.
Will it be ok on the off-road stuff?
Although Peugeot won't offer an all-wheel drive transmission it will give customers the choice of the company's Grip Control system. This uses software in the car's traction control to give it greater ability to drive out of difficult situations like mud and sand. For the first time in the 3008 this system will also include a Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC) function that enables the car to automatically control its own pace when driving down steep slopes, leaving the driver to just concentrate on the steering.
When will it go on sale?
The 3008 will make its public debut at September's Paris Motor Show and order books should open shortly after that. First customer deliveries should begin just before the end of this year.
Dave Humphreys - 23 May 2016
