A RECENT addition to the UK car scene is the so called Crossover sector and already leading the way is the Peugeot 3008.
Celebrating its 200th year, the French car maker joined the ever burgeoning Crossover segment last November and 2010 has already seen the 3008 starting to pick up the trophies - including the presigious What Car? Car of the Year waward.
The 3008 is a quite compelling all-round package and is Peugeot’s attempt to swerve away from the standard hatchback set-up.
It comes stacked with some very clever thinking while its handsome, head turning, user friendly styling features some well worked detail.
Set on the same platform as the 308 hatch, this newcomer takes on board the practicality of the Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV), rugged looks of the Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and the vehicle dynamics of a conventional hatchback model.
As you would expect from a quality performer in the mass market, Peugeot has provided a wide range of engine options for the newcomer, two 1.6-litre petrol developing 120bhp and 150bhp while a 1.6 diesel source pulls 110bhp and 2.0-litre HDIs deliver 150bhp and 163bhp respectively.
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 fog lamps, electric front windows, air con, electric parking brake with hill assist, two-way adjustable steering wheel, ABS braking with Electronic Brake Force Distribution and switchable Electronic Stability Programme (ESB).
The Sport model driven here adds 17-inch alloys, a rear parking aid, cruise control, radio, single CD with MP3 playback, load area torch, rear heating and air con vents.
A neatly set out dashboard and impressive centre console also add to the interior comfort of the high command driving position.
There’s also a good look and positive feel to the various controls while roomy storage spaces including underfloor bins add to the 3008’s user friendliness.
While there isn’t the flexibility of seat movement usually found in conventional SUVs, the interior is comfortably roomy. It's a chunky five-seater which provides plenty of interior space.
Much thought has also gone into the massive loading bay which can easily be divided courtesy of a three-way adjustable floor. Luggage area with all seats taken is 512 litres, with rear seats folded flat via the pull of a lever a massive 1,604 litres is available plus a very user friendly split tailgate is also a feature.
From the excellent high driving position all round vision is excellent and the 2.0-litre 150bhp diesel paired with a six-speed manual gearbox proved a decidedly punchy performer.
Smoothly responsive at all times, some very decent low and mid range torque enabling drivers to overcome the weighty presence of, what is after all, a pretty big motor.
With stacks of grip and any body roll tempered by the Dynamic Roll Control System fitted to the rear suspension, the 3008 holds the road well and handles very tidily.
Further abilitiy is provided by the Peugeot optional Grip Control system which electronically controls torque delivery in conjunction with the traction control system to give the 3008 some heavy duty qualities.
Not a heavyweight 4x4 set-up, Grip Control is controlled by a dial which calls up five easily operated settings for various scenarios of conditions, proving more than equal to ground conditions provided by the recent snow storms.
Overall, the Peugeot 3008 is a highly practical and enjoyable alternative to your regular hatchback.
Generously kitted out, 3008 also has further main attractions in the parts bin such as a full length glass roof and, while a head-up display system is an innovative speed and distance alert, the whole package certainly makes good sense as a family vehicle.
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 3008 2.0 HDI Sport
Price: £20,095
Mechanical: 150bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox
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