Peugeot's take on the crossover

Sep 28 2009 Malcolm Robertshaw

WHILE many car makers seek fancy names for their latest creations, Peugeot has always followed the numbers game.

The latest in the French manufacturer's digital dubbing is the 3008 and it will be on sale in November.

But why the extra digit when we have become used to the likes of 107, 207 and 308 for the current models?

Well, according to the Peugeot boffins the figure 3 places this newcomer in the carmaker's compact medium range; the double zero in Peugeot-speak designates a different and original vehicle while the figure 8 actually specifies its generation within the current family range.

The 3008 is Peugeot's attempt to swerve away from the standard hatchback set-up.

Set on the same platform as the 308 hatch, this latest in today's line of crossover vehicles takes a fresh look at the concept putting some of the capabilities of the Multi Purpose Vehicle, Sports Utility Vehicle and the conventional hatchback together to create a distinctive family affair.

As you would expect from a quality performer in the mass market, Peugeot has provided a wide range of power train options for the newcomer, two 1.6-litre petrol developing 120bhp and 150bhp while a brace of HDI 1.6 diesel sources pull 110bhp respectively and 2.0-litre HDIs deliver 150bhp and 163bhp respectively.

Although perhaps not quite a stunner in the head turning stakes, the 3008 does have some well worked detail in its styling. However, while not really handsome, it is high and wide and the egg box-style look of the front grille does make quite a statement.

To grace the plush interior of a well put together cabin there's a trio of generous trim levels on offer, Active, Sport and Exclusive.

Entry level Active includes the likes of sound system with CD, front fogs, electric front windows, air con, electric parking brake with hill assist, two-way adjustable tiller, ABS braking with electronic brake force distribution and switchable electronic stability programme.

The Sport model adds 17-inch Samara alloys, a rear parking aid, cruise control, radio, single CD with MP3 playback, load area torch, rear heating and air con vents.

The range topping Exclusive model boasts an intriguing head-up display showing speed and a distance alert system which kicks in on start up. Exclusive also includes a massive panoramic glass roof which makes an already roomy interior even more light and airy.

A neatly set out dashboard and impressive centre console also add to the interior comfort in the high command driving position from where overall vision is good. There's also a good look and positive feel to the various controls and switchgear elements while a host of storage spaces and glory holes set in the floor abound.

While there isn't the flexibility of seat movement to be found in conventional SUVs, the interior is comfortably roomy, providing more manoeuvrable space than its already established major rival, the Nissan Qashqai.

Much thought has gone into the massive loading bay which can easily become compartmentalised courtesy of a three-way adjustable floor and while available luggage area with all seats taken is 512 litres, with rear seats folded a massive 1,604 litres is available plus the useful split tailgate also features.

On the tarmac, the 1.6-litre turbo charged 150bhp petrol engine (£17,795) proves a decidedly punchy performer. Smoothly responsive at all times, some very decent torque enabling drivers to overcome the weighty presence of quite a big car.

With stacks of grip and any body roll tempered by the dynamic roll control system fitted to the rear suspension, the 3008 handles well. It delivers a nicely supple ride and responds well to the communicative power steering.

The range-topping 2.0-litre 150bhp diesel (£20,895) also performs well over the long haul, delivering a comfortable ride in all parts.

By now you may be asking why Peugeot has not made the 3008 four-wheel-drive as Nissan has with its crossover, the Qashqai.

Well, Peugeot considered weight and interior space to be a problem, so to improve the 3008's all-terrain ability their engineers have provided the optional grip control system which works with the traction control and together with snow tyres and the car's high ground clearance should enable most folk to cope with slippery surfaces at tyre level.

Overall, this is an agreeable alternative to a regular hatch from the Peugeot people. Pricing opens up at £15,995 rising to £21,895 and with Peugeot's HYbrid4 technology expected in the 3008 range for 2011, this could be the start of something big for the PSA Peugeot Citroen Group.