The French know a thing or two about cramming tons of practicality and sensibility into a reasonably compact MPV. Peugeot launched its facelifted 3008 earlier in 2014 and we spent a week with the top of the range 2.0 HDi Allure model.
We like:
. Specification
. Strong diesel engine
. Plenty of practicality
We dislike:
. Price
. Infotainment screen too small and too far away
Rivals:
. Citroen C4 Picasso
. Renault Koleos
. Nissan Xtrail
. Hyundai IX35
Compare the Peugeot 3008 against its rivals here.
Visual changes
The previous generation 3008 was an average car, but for me was let down primarily by its anonymous styling. The 2014 model has been substantially upgraded in the visual department and the redesigned front features all-new headlights with daytime running lights. The tail lights have been changed too.
Strong engine
The engine is strong and purposeful. Combined with a six-speed automatic gearbox, the Peugeot 3008 offers up 120 kW and a hefty 340 Nm of torque. Open road driving is where this vehicle shines and overtaking ability is to be commended. I did note that the gearbox often liked to change down a ratio which was not always required, but driving it in manual mode means you’re in full control – something I prefer anyway.
Practicality galore
The Peugeot 3008 impresses in the practicality department. Not only is there is a double-tiered boot, but all the seats including the front passenger can be folded flat. Ever wanted to buy curtain rails or a ladder? This arrangement will change your life. Speaking of practicality and specification, the Peugeot 3008 comes very well equipped.
Satellite navigation, cruise control with speed limiter, heads-up display, full panoramic roof, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather trim, rear park assist, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Aux inputs, and dual-zone climate control. This is the range-topping Allure model, but there is a lesser model, the Active available from R334 000.
Summary and conclusion
The ride is a little on the firm side and you will feel serious imperfections in the road. This vehicle was clearly designed for European-style smooth roads, but on our South African roads the Peugeot offers acceptable ride quality.
With that practicality, standard specification and strong engine, I’d like to believe the Peugeot 3008 is a competent car. It is and if you’re after a clever and practical car, you could do no wrong in investigating this car. However the super practical Peugeot 3008 is unfortunately undone by its fellow Frenchman, the Citroen C4 Picasso, which offers smarter technology, a more frugal engine and a substantially cheaper price tag.
Second opinion
Peugeot’s 3008 is one of the most practical cars around. There are loads of storage boxes, the seats all fold flat and the centre console resembles the Kimberly Hole. The ride though is a bit jittery and it’s a bit awkward to look at. The diesel engine is a strong performer in this package and its enthusiasm staves off the boredom of MPV driving. Ashley Oldfield
Peugeot 3008 2.0 HDi Allure quick specs
| Price | R410 300 |
| Engine | 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel |
| Power | 120 kW |
| Torque | 340 Nm |
| Transmission | Six-speed automatic |
| Wheels | 17-inch alloys |
| 0-100km/h | 10.2 seconds (claimed) |
| Fuel economy | 6.1L/100 km (claimed) |
