Peugeot 3008 PureTech (2017) review

The second generation Peugeot 3008 went on sale in January 2017 and marked a sea change in the brand’s approach to the burgeoning mid-size crossover market with a new edgy design, quality interior and high levels of connectivity and technology.

The old 3008 was unattractive and unremarkable. That’s all changed. The latest iteration is, in essence, the competitive SUV Peugeot dealers have been waiting a long time for. On paper it has what it takes to challenge the likes of the newly facelifted Nissan Qashqai, by far away the sector’s biggest seller, and rival the critically acclaimed Seat Ateca. The fact that it also delivers on the road is just as well. Being voted the 2017 Car of the Year is a welcome marketing bonus.

Although the latest 3008 has gained 80mm in length it is the same width but lower than the old model. That extra length still makes it one of the most compact models in its class but the increase has worked wonders in terms of delivering more useable cabin space, most notably for those travelling in the rear who benefit from more leg, elbow and headroom. Luggage space has also been boosted with a cavernous boot which will swallow oversized loads once the rear seats are folded flat.

However, what elevates this model above its predecessor – and now the competition – is that it looks and feels like a car designed and engineered for driver engagement and enjoyment. This is evident by Peugeot’s latest i-Cockpit design which places the driver in a commanding position with high level displays, short throw six-speed manual transmission and an eight-inch tablet style touchscreen which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone connectivity.

Best of all though is the small steering wheel which features a flat top and bottom. It’s surprising how much the change of size and shape contributes to driving pleasure as the steering feels responsive, weighted and sporty; this particular reinvention of the wheel was worth pursuing.

Further driver enjoyment comes from the punchy three cylinder 1.2-litre petrol engine which quietly delivers an impressive 131PS. It’s economical too delivering 41.4mpg during our week long tenure which saw us clock up 607 miles across a good mix of motorway runs, urban crawls and some quiet country roads.

Our mid-trim Allure model was generously specified with dual zone climate control, TomTom satnav with live traffic updates, voice recognition and 180 degree reversing camera all for a not unreasonable £24,295 on the road.

Behind the wheel there’s a constant reminder of just how good the Peugeot 3008 is to drive. And it’s not just the unmissable 2017 Car of the Year sticker glimpsed each time you use the rear view mirror. This is a car that excels in terms of driver engagement, comfort, practicality and showroom appeal. It’s also a car that puts Peugeot’s dealers in a credible position to start taking a greater share of the ultra-competitive medium-sized SUV sector.

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