Peugeot's 3008 is a more sophisticated thing in third generation form. Jonathan Crouch drives it.

Ten Second Review

Peugeot's third generation 3008 has evolved into a sleeker, more sophisticated kind of mid-sized family SUV, with an all-new STLA platform. There's now a full-EV version to sit alongside Hybrid and PHEV variants. And cutting-edge looks and cabin tech. It's just a question of whether you'll like the way it drives.

Background

Rarely has a car evolved so much over its history as the Peugeot 3008. The first generation version of 2007 was an MPV, but the MK2 design of 2016 switched roles and became a crossover (with a seven-seat derivative, the 5008). That second generation 3008 sold well (1.3 million units in 130 countries), which is why late 2023 saw the announcement of the third generation model we look at here (which again supports a seven-seat 5008 spin-off model). This time round, once again the 3008 has evolved into something different - though not so very different. Now, Peugeot wants us to see this mid-sized model as a 'Fastback SUV' - in other words, a family SUV with a swept-back sporty roof line. There are plenty of those already in the segment - Hybrids, PHEVs and full-EVs - and Peugeot wants to target them all. So all three of these kinds of powertrain are being offered here. It's the full-EV set-up this MK3 model's all-new STLA architecture was primarily designed around though, a platform that in future will underpin over 2 million cars a year from the various Stellantis Group brands. What does it create in this one? Let's take a look.

Driving Experience

Consumers in the lower mid-sized SUV segment these days are split between preferences for Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid and full-EV, so the third generation 3008 offers all of these powertrain solutions. In each case, the 3008 in question will be primarily front-driven (which for the EV version is increasingly unusual in the segment). A rear-driven format would have made it difficult for the same STLA architecture to package in the third seating row for the closely related 5008 model. The fact that this platform has to support larger Stellantis models of that sort hasn't helped this 3008's kerb weight, which is between 100-230kg heavier than key rivals. Which might be why, like its predecessors, this car won't be chosen by customers for whom driving engagement is a priority. As to which of the drivetrains you should choose, well there's an obvious attraction to being able to plug in, but we can't help suspecting that less is more here. The base 48V self charging Hybrid version is considerably cheaper than the PHEV or the EV variants, yet can still run on battery power for up to half the time in urban travel. It's the same 1.2 litre Hybrid 136 e-DCS6 set-up that featured in latter versions of the previous generation model, with a PureTech three cylinder petrol engine mated to a bespoke 6-speed dual clutch auto gearbox featuring a 28bhp electric motor built into its casing. If you'd like more electric range but don't want an EV, then you'll be directed to the Plug-in Hybrid 195 e-DSC7 version, based around a 150hp 1.6-litre petrol engine and 7-speed dual clutch auto transmission mated to a 21kWh battery that energises a 125hp electric motor; all of which claims to be to drive the car for around 52 miles on battery power. That only leaves the E-3008 full-EV, which in standard front-driven form has a 210hp electric motor energised by a 73kWh battery pack, which when fully charged offers a range of up to 326 miles. If that's not enough, the STLA chassis has been engineered for an even heavier 98kWh battery, which needs a gutsier 230hp motor and claims a range of 435 miles. The platform has also been engineered for a dual motor 73kWh AWD flagship version with a combined 316bhp output and a claimed 326 mile range. That gets to 62mph in just 6.4s.

Design and Build

If you choose this 3008, it'll probably primarily be because you like the way it looks; the sleek fastback styling, the distinctive slim 3D rear light panel and the unusual 'cat's ear' rear spoiler. This is a bigger 3008 than its predecessor, 54mm wider and around 100mm longer than before. There are few body lines and Range Rover-like hidden waistline seals. And inside? Well Peugeot isn't going to abandon its unusual 'i-Cockpit' dashboard design approach - nor should it - but it can certainly evolve this approach, and has here, with this MK3 model's 'Panoramic i-Cockpit' set-up. The previous dinky little low-set wheel is retained but above it, there's now a gently curving 21-inch screen that doubles as a driver display and an infotainment monitor. It's been mounted so as to seemingly 'float' above the dashboard and stretches from the centre console to the A-pillar. As in the old car, there are configurable 'i-Toggle' haptic buttons, but Peugeot has doubled their number to ten. These can be set to deal with basic things like cabin temperature or fan speed; or maybe more eclectic things like reserving one to call a particular person on your phone. It all feels quite high end - the fascia is wrapped in grey textile, beautifully back-lit and highlighted by curved metallic inserts. As for the back seat, well the fastback roofline obviously doesn't help headroom, but this MK3 model's 64mm increase in wheelbase length should mean there's a little more leg space. Out back, there's a 588-litre boot (dropping to 470-litres on AWD E-3008 models). With front wheel drive, you can extend the boot to 1,663-litres by folding the rear bench.

Market and Model

3008 pricing starts from just over £35,000 for the Hybrid 136 e-DSC6 self-charging model. For the 3008 Plug-in Hybrid 195 e-DSC7, prices start from around £41,000. For the E-3008 full-EV, prices start from around £46,000 for the entry-level single motor 73kWh front-driven version. Or from just under £49,000 for the E-3008 Long Range. All those figures get you base 'Allure' trim; above that sits the top 'GT'-spec variant. 'Allure' trim includes 19-inch alloy wheels, ECO LED headlights, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, cruise control, body-coloured accents for the front grille and keyless entry. Plus ambient lighting linked to the drive modes, a wireless smartphone charging pad and wireless 'Apple CarPlay' and 'Android Auto' smartphone-mirroring. 'GT' spec upgrades you to 20-inch wheels (on the E-3008) and adds a contrasting black roof and rear spoiler, as well as a heated steering wheel, pixel LED headlights with adaptive high beams, adaptive cruise control with stop and go functions, a hands-free opening tailgate and front parking sensors. There's also 8-colour extended ambient lighting, a frameless electrochrome rear view mirror, driver's seat lumbar support, heated front seats and Alcantara upholstery with faux leather trimming. Each spec level can be specified with a choice of three different options packs. There's lots of camera safety kit too, including autonomous braking and Lane keep assist.

Cost of Ownership

Let's start with the Hybrid 136 e-DSC6 48V variant. This manages up to 52.5mpg on the combined cycle. And up to 122g/km of CO2. Peugeot reckons that this model's 48V mild hybrid petrol engine technology reduces fuel consumption by 15%, with these savings mostly being achieved during urban driving, where as we told you in our 'Driving' section, the brand claims the car can run on just electric power for up to 50% of the time. As for the alternative combustion model, the Plug-in Hybrid 195 e-DSC7 version, well its 21kWh battery will take the car around 52 miles on battery power. When equipped with the optional 7.4kW on-board charger, charging that PHEV model's battery takes 2 hours 45 minutes (from 0-100%) from an AC fast charger. The PHEV's fuel consumption is rated at 212.7-356.2mpg. And its CO2 returns are rated at 18-30g/km, depending on variant. As for the E-3008 full-EV, well we gave you the driving range figures earlier: 326 miles for the 73kWh model and 435 miles for the 98kWh version. To get near to these, you'll have to make frequent use of the provided 'Eco' drive mode and the various settings (low, medium and high) of the regenerative braking system. Peugeot claims best in class efficiency figure of 4.5 miles per kWh for the entry-level variant. This is aided by eco tyres, friction-reducing bearings, a slippery drag coefficient of 0.28Cd and a heat pump which will preserve range in cold weather. As for E-3008 charging, well little surprisingly, the STLA Medium platform hasn't been engineered with the 800V architecture that would enable use of the latest breed of ultra-rapid DC public chargers. But with its 400V system, the E-3008 can charge at up to 160kW, which allows for 20-80% charge in 20 minutes, with a charging rate of 2.4kWh per minute at its peak, at which point 62 miles of range are added every 10 minutes. The E-3008 230 Long Range model's larger 98kWh battery needs with 27 minutes to go from 20-80% and adds 93 miles every 10 minutes. Via the 'MyPeugeot' smartphone app or by using the vehicle's touchscreen, owners can schedule a wake-up time for the battery. This means that the cells can be at the optimal temperature for efficiency from the time you start up, plus of course the interior can also be pre-cooled or pre-heated too. Owners can opt to purchase a single service plan to cover all essential maintenance. Service intervals for all 3008s are every year or 20,000 miles. And with the E-3008 EV, you'll be given a certificate of battery capacity after each service; both batteries come with an eight year / 100,000 warranty for 70% of their capacity.

Summary

This third generation 3008 is a thorough evolution of what was already a thoroughly modern mid-sized SUV. It seems to have emerged from the kind of customer clinic research suggesting that stylish looks, premium high-tech cabin ambiance, practicality and affordable running costs are all that really matters to a modern family when it comes to their choice of this class of car. If you agree that's true, you'll find plenty to like here, even if you don't stretch to the E-3008 full-EV variant this MK3 range has been primarily designed around. Those in search of a more engagingly characterful crossover of this kind may well wish for more, but those people are rarely served well by cars in this segment. And in the past, they're not the kind of people who would have chosen 3008 anyway. So this car has changed in almost every way, but the people it will primarily appeal to haven't. Perhaps that's a form of progress.

Body Glass

Rain sensor

Rear wiper

Laminated windscreen

Acoustic windscreen

Dark tinted privacy glass for rear door, Tailgate and Quarter windows

Flat blade wipers with magic wash integrated nozzles

Front and rear electric windows with one touch

Tailgate with heated rear window

Automatic windscreen wiper activation with interval wiping intensity control

Brakes

Front/rear disc brakes

Hill start assist

Electric parking brake

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Braking Assistance)

Post collision safety brake

Advanced Emergency Braking System with radar (AEBS3) providing night detection of pedestrians and cyclists

Chassis/Suspension

Dynamic stability control and electronic anti-skid system

Communication

E-call

Natural voice recognition

Bluetooth with two microphones (Connect up to 2 phones)

Wireless smartphone charger with status light and ambient lighting

Driver Aids

Rear parking sensor

Lane keep assist

Driver profile selection

Wireless mirror screen with apple carplay and android auto

Speed limit and traffic sign recognition and recommendation

Drive modes select (Eco, normal and sport) with configurable ambient lighting

Driver attention alert

Driver Convenience

Manual gear changes via steering mounted paddles

Driver foot rest

PEUGEOT i-Cockpit - 21" HD panoramic curved display incorporating instrument panel and touchscreen with 3colour themes

Driver Information

Multi function trip computer

PEUGEOT SOS and assistance

Exterior temperature indicator with ice warning

Front passenger seat detection

PEUGEOT i-connect advanced HD fully customisable touch screen, Navigation with Tom Tom Live updates and over the air map updates

Driving Mirrors

Electrochrome rear view mirror

Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors

Orbital gloss black door mirrors

Embellishment Trims

Stene grey finish for dashboard, door panels and central console decors

Entertainment

6 speakers

DAB Radio (Digital Audio Broadcasting)

AM/FM bi-tuner

Peugeot customisable virtual iToggles

USB-C sockets (2 x front and 2 x rear)

Exterior Body Features

Body colour roof

Gloss black finish B pillar

Body coloured exterior door handles

Rear side wing doors

Body colour floating effect rear spoiler

Lower front and rear bumper trims in meteor grey

Gloss black connecting strip between rear lights

3008 model designation badgers front and rear in basalt grey

Front grille with body coloured accents

Grained black lower door claddings and wheel arches

Hybrid rear badging in basalt grey

Exterior Lights

Automatic headlamp activation

LED third brake light

Automatic hazard light activation upon heavy brake application

Eco LED headlights

LED exterior lighting

Door mirrors - Welcome lighting and integrated LED indicators

Peugeot 3-claw signature front and rear daytime running lights

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Dual zone climate control

Rear air vents

Quick launch cabin heating/cooling function

Cabin high efficiency filter

Interior Features

Luggage cover

Aluminium pedals

2 cupholders in front centre console

Electric power steering with reach and rake adjustable steering column

Two position boot floor

4 Grab handles retractable and damped

Two bag hooks

e-Toggle compact gear selector

Mistral black pillars and headlining

4 tie down luggage rings

Arch design central console with concealed storage

Glasses storage box, roof mounted

Compact split leather mutifunction steering wheel with gloss black and satin chrom detailing

Roof lining - Meteor grey

Chrome finish interior door handles

12V socket in front and boot

RISPY embossed fabric upholstery

Interior Lights

LED footwell lights

LED Glovebox light

LED boot light

8 colour ambient lighting

LED front and rear reading lights with push button control

Safety

Front and rear curtain airbags

Front optimised safety headrests and 3 x rear retractable headrests with height adjustable

Driver and front passenger side airbags

Child locking functionality on rear doors

3x3 point rear seat belts

Seatbelts - Front and rear outer seats with pyrotechnic pretensioners and force limiters

2x Isofix child seat fitting on outer rear seats with zipped cover

Driver and front passenger airbags with airbag deactivation function

Seats

Rear centre 3 point seat belt

3 seat rear bench

Seatbelt unfastened on the move audible and visual alert for front and rear seats

Dynamic front seats

Single front passenger seat

40/20/40 folding rear seat backrest with fixed base

Central front armrest with ventilated storage compartment and LED lighting

Security

Locking wheel nuts

Deadlocking system

Electronic code immobiliser

Automatic door locking when moving off

Acoustic vehicle alert system (AVAS)

Peugeot Open and Go (keyless entry and push button start)

Seatbelts reminder and unfastend warning indicator

Exterior passenger door lock

2x Keys (Lock, Unlock, Boot release function with concealed key)

Thatcham category 1 Perimetric and volumetric alarm with anti-lift detection

Vanity Mirrors

LED illuminated driver and passenger concealed sunvisor mirrors

Wheels

Michelin e-primacy class A tyres

Wheels - Alloy

19" BREDA diamond cut alloy wheels with star center cap in orbital black

Emissions - ICE

CO: 0.343

Particles: 0.0003

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 122

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 143

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 123

HC+NOx: N

NOx: 0.028

HC: 0.02

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

CC: 1199

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: TURBO INJECTION

Catalytic Convertor: No

Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE

Transmission: SEMI-AUTO

Gears: 6 SPEED

Fuel Consumption - ICE

WLTP - MPG - High - TEL: 60.1

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 52.5

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEL: 55.8

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEH: 48.6

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEL: 56.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEH: 5.8

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 6.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 5.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEH: 7.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEL: 6.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEH: 5.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEL: 4.7

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEH: 6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEL: 5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEL: 5.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 5.4

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 44.6

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 52.5

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEH: 38.3

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEL: 44.7

WLTP - MPG - High - TEH: 51

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEH: 46.7

General

Special Edition: 0

Based On ID: N

Special Order: 0

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 22E

Service Interval Mileage: 16000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

Badge Power: 136

Badge Engine CC: 1.2

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 3

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Coin Series: Allure

Coin Description: Hybrid 136

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 60000

Performance

Engine Power - BHP: 136

Top Speed: 125

Engine Power - KW: 100

Engine Power - RPM: 5500

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 170

Engine Torque - NM: 230

Engine Torque - RPM: 1750

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

0 to 62 mph (secs): 10.2

Engine Torque - MKG: 23.5

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 225/55 R19

Tyre Size Rear: 225/55 R19

Tyre Size Spare: N

Wheel Type: 19" ALLOY

Wheel Style: BREDA

Space Saver?: 0

Alloys?: No

Vehicle Dimensions

Wheelbase: 2739

Width: 1895

Length: 4542

Width (including mirrors): 2108

Height: 1641

Height (including roof rails): N

Weight and Capacities

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 55

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1000

Max. Loading Weight: 507

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 588

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2080

No. of Seats: 5

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1663

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 10.6

Minimum Kerbweight: 1573

Driver Aids

Advanced grip control includes 3 driving modes - Sand, Snow, Mud and hill assist decent control (HADC)

Exterior Body Features

Additional metallic paint

Packs

360 vision and drive assist pack - 3008

Drivers seat pack with front seat heating - 3008

Paint - Metallic

Additional metallic - Cumulus grey

Additional metallic - Nera black

Metallic - Obsession blue

Additional metallic - Titane grey

Additional metallic - Okenite white

Additional metallic - Ingaro blue

Towing

Retractable towbar manually with 13 pin harness and trailer sway mitigation system (TSM) with upgraded cooling system

Trim - Cloth

RISPY embossed fabric with leather effect trim - Grey with Quartz (light pink) stitching

Wheels - Spare

Tyre repair kit includes 12V compressor, Sealant and storage box