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Our Fleet Test Drive: Peugeot 3008 - 1st Report
Date: 18 May 2010 | Author: Guy Bird
[3] Big wraparound high centre console
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Peugeot's new crossover, the 3008, could have been spawned direct from pop band The Black Eyed Peas' hit 'Boom Boom Pow!' which includes the lyrics "I'm so 3008, you so 2000 and late".
The basic sentiment - that to be '3008' is a futuristic and good place to be - has been shared by most who have tested the new Peugeot so far.
High-profile awards and praise have been heaped upon the 3008 since its UK launch late last year for its melding of MPV, SUV and hatchback attributes, but can the car stand up to scrutiny as a long-term business car proposition, and is it really offering anything new?
Before the term 'crossover' was coined in the UK - circa 2007 with the launch of the Nissan Qashqai - cars such as the 3008 would have been called mini or compact MPVs. But since the success of the Qashqai - which fused hatchback characteristics with more rugged SUV styling, ground clearance, plus if desired, though few did, actual all-wheel drive capability - a new segment has caught the public's imagination. To stay '3008' perhaps, Peugeot has marketed its new car as a 'crossover' despite not offering any 4x4 versions in its current range.
Semantics aside, the 3008's 'rugged mini-MPV look' - all high roof, big bumpers and wide flared wheel arches - has plenty of exterior appeal and interior innovation and substance to go with it. Unlike some so-called mini-MPVs that lack 'multiple purposes', the 3008 has rear seats that really do fold flat [1], a useful three-position boot floor plus a handy split rear tailgate more akin to big SUVs [2]. Upfront the dash is modern and its big wraparound high centre console [3] makes the driver feel fully in charge.
Our engine choice is the fleet-friendly 1.6 110 HDi boasting 55.3mpg and 137g/km CO2 plus the 'Sport' trim that includes 17-inch alloys, cruise control and a rear parking aid. Added options include metallic paint (£410), satnav (£715), auto wipers and lights (£155), and a rear headrest video pack (£510). Literally only just delivered, we'll let you know if it creates "Boom, Boom, Pow!" excitement over the coming months.
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