Peugeot has revealed its rival to the Nissan Qashqai and Renault Scenic in the form of the 3008.
The 3008 is a front-wheel drive mini-MPV with off-roader styling and will go on sale mid-2009.
The Peugeot 3008 will initially be available with a choice of six engines – three diesel and three petrol.
The diesel line-up includes a 130g/km 110PS 1.6-litre diesel coupled to a clutchless manual six-speed gearbox.
Peugeot claims its ‘Grip Control’ traction control system coupled to snow and mud tyres gives the 3008 sufficient off-road performance for “real off-road driving”. The system uses a Range Rover style terrain dial to allow the driver to select the type of surface the car is on and the Grip Control system then provides the appropriate ESP and traction control level.
Five settings are provided: standard, snow, off road (mud/dirt/wet grass), sand and ESP off.
However, from 2011 Peugeot will add a four-wheel drive version in the form of a diesel hybrid. An electric motor will power the rear wheels and is expected to cut CO2 emissions by 35%.