- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
2.0DT, 4 cyl.
- Engine Power
133kW, 400Nm
- Fuel
Diesel 4.8L/100KM
- Manufacturer
FWD
- Transmission
Auto
- Warranty
5 Yr, Unltd KMs
- Ancap Safety
5/5 star (2016)
2017 Peugeot 3008 GT she says, he says review
She: Peugeot is more renowned for hot hatches, such as the iconic 205 GTi, than SUVs. That could change with the second-generation 3008. Compared to the original, it’s chalk and cheese and it looks distinctively delectable.
He: Yeah, the previous 3008 was more a compact people mover than an SUV, Dani. But this is an all-new model from the brand. Unlike the previous generation of Peugeot SUVs (4007 and 4008) that were little more than dressed up Mitsubishis, this is French to the core. It’s based on the same underpinnings as the latest 308 hatch, which means it feels modern, light and dynamic.
We are testing the range-topping 3008 GT, which comes with a turbo diesel engine and is loaded with equipment to help justify its $49,490 price tag. What do you think of the presentation, is it suitably high-end?
She: The cabin looks premium, arguably one of the best in its class. The interior is unique, with a nice combination of textures and trims. The use of the fabric blends well with the leather and in true Peugeot style, the French brand has nailed the minimalistic look.
The rear window however is too small, making it hard to see at the back. It’s also worth noting the Nappa leather trim in our test car costs an extra $2,700, while the panoramic sunroof and electric tailgate are $2500, bumping the price to $55,740. It’s getting up there but this top-shelf GT has plenty of gear. On a side note, the massage function on the driver’s seat is awesome. There are several options to choose but ‘cat claw’ is the pick for me.
He: The GT gets 19-inch alloys, faux suede seat trim as standard, keyless entry and ignition, LED headlights, ambient interior lighting, dual-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8.0-inch touchscreen, navigation, digital radio and smartphone mirroring. Plus you get autonomous emergency braking, active cruise, lane keeping assistance, automatic high beams and a 360-degree camera, so the 3008 GT ticks all the major boxes.
While the rest of the range gets a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, the GT gets a unique 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine. It’s good for 133kW of power and a punchy 400Nm of torque. What did you think of the driving experience?
She: There’s a bit of diesel noise and the ride can feel stiff but it’s willing and responsive. It’s one of the lighter SUVs, weighing more than 100 kilograms less than the Volkswagen Tiguan and that helps its agility. The six-speed auto feels refined and it’s enjoyable driving about town or the freeway. I really like the small flat-bottomed steering wheel and I found it provided good visibility of the i-Cockpit and the road. The 3008 is only available in two-wheel, but I don’t think that will be a factor for the prospective buyer.
He: The i-Cockpit concept (the small steering wheel and high-set dashboard) is good in theory, and personally I like the compact rim, but I can understand why it doesn’t work for everyone. Finding the ideal seating and steering wheel position can be a little tricky, which makes you wonder why they don’t just go with a head-up display.
The digital dashboard though is very similar to what you find in many Volkswagen Group models - from the Tiguan to Lamborghini Huracan - but with unique and stylish Peugeot graphics. It all adds up to a nice compact SUV with an almost premium feel. Has Peugeot done enough to get you thinking about them as an SUV brand instead of just a hatchback maker, Dani?
She: Yep this French delight has won me over, Steve. Peugeot’s aren’t popular but I think the 3008 sets a new standard for high-end mid-size SUVs. It understandable some may think it’s too expensive but it’s worthy of being a top contender. What’s your verdict on the 3008?
He: Like you say, Peugeot is not a big-selling brand in Australia. And while this GT model is expensive, if you take a step back there’s not much to split the 3008 and the likes of the more popular Mazda CX-5 and Tiguan in their respective high-grade trim lines.
I’d certainly have the 3008 on my short-list of small SUVs and I think others should too.
2017 Peugeot 3008 GT price and specifications
Price: From $49,490 plus on-road costs
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel
Power: 133kW at 3750rpm
Torque: 400Nm at 2000rpm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Fuel use: 4.8L/100km