French carmaker Peugeot’s new 3008 and 5008 SUV models exude practicality and usability in a distinctly European package with the elegance for which France is famous.
The pair of SUVs share much of the innards but with different sized bodies. The 5008 fits seven while the 3008 is a standard five-seater. Each model offers the kind of high-end comfort distinctive to European makes.
Mechanically, the SUVs are set up exactly the same as before, so under the bonnet is a direct-injection 1.6-litre THP (Turbo High Pressure, not the newer PureTech mill) four-pot that generates 167 PS and 240 Nm of torque. A six-speed Aisin-made gearbox sends drive to the front wheels, and there is a rotary dial (Advanced Grip Control) to choose between five traction modes, including Snow, Mud, and Sand.
New to the pair is of course the redesigned front fascia, featuring a more expressive frameless grille and reprofiled full LED lights (with auto high beam and 90-degree cornering function) with vertical LED DRLs. The 3008 and 5008 numerals on the bonnet are new, making them slightly more identifiable from the front.
Changes at the back are less extensive compared to the front, but nowhere are the full LED tail lights, replete with three-dimensional claws and sequential turn indicators. This is quite the upgrade from before, though it should be noted that there is no sequential indicators upfront.
Assembled by Stellantis at its Kedah assembly plant, the fuel economy is very solid in both, a full day’s driving only eating up about a quarter tank of fuel.
Peugeot has done an excellent job crafting the interior. The i-cockpit design language makes everything at the front feel very driver-centric, without compromising the comfort of the front passenger.
The buttons and multimedia display all gently tilt towards the driver, a subtle decision but one that makes you feel as if all the controls are wrapped around you, a bit like the immersion one gets from a curved computer monitor.
The touchscreen multimedia display is elegant to use and look at. The touch controls are responsive and it’s a breeze to pair it with other devices, both models supporting Android Auto and Apple Carplay. There is also a wireless charging pad tucked into the centre console as standard, lined with a grippy textured rubber to make sure your device isn’t sliding around.
Safety is also a priority and both cars are packed with features to achieve a 5-star Euro NCAP. The lane departure feature keeps the car within the lane if the road markings are distinctly visible and each wing mirror has a small light that alerts the driver to other vehicles in their blind spots.
As a large car, passenger comfort is key. Both cars offer roomy and plush cabins, with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. In the 5008, there are an additional two rear seats that can be folded up from the boot, and while legroom will be a bit cramped for taller riders the seats are still usable.
The 3008 starts at RM161,616.66, with the 5008 coming in at RM177,311.90 and both are now available via newly appointed sole distributor Bermaz Auto Alliance.
