Road test - Peugeot 3008 Crossover

Author: Ian Strachan

Suddenly “crossover” vehicles are coming at us from all directions. And Peugeot – no slouches when it comes to pioneering motoring trends – has pitched in with the Peugeot 3008.

The 3008 combines the performance and handling of a hatchback with the stability and size of a sports utility or MPV.

The result is a medium sector car with a tough appearance and a stable drive ride which can cope with adverse conditions and has bags of room inside.

The 3008 Sport which I tested is powered by a willing direct injection 1.6 litre diesel engine delivering brisk 110bhp performance. But this is a car that looks at home on a motorway or negotiating country lanes. A new grip control system and hybrid four wheel drive on demand, using electric powered rear wheels, give it more off-road capability than you'd expect in a car of this size.

It handles remarkably well, even in slippery road conditions. Cornering is sure footed with no body roll and the sensible suspension set up ensures a comfortable ride.

The engine provides good performance throughout the speed range, delivering power smoothly but with plenty of mid-range pull. It's helped by a pleasant-to-use six speed manual transmission.  

Fuel consumption comes in at 55.3 miles to the gallon in mixed driving, which is more than respectable.

The interior is light, well laid out in a cockpit style (a head-up display is optional) and spacious with plenty of room for five adults. The large luggage area can be further improved with the ability to fold the three rear seats flat. There's also a large storage area beneath the boot floor.

Equipment levels are generous. Standard features on the Sport specification include smart 17 inch alloys with energy-saver tyres, a radio and CD player with MP3 compatibility, rear parking aid, cruise control, dynamic roll control, an excellent air conditioning system with rear vents, and electric windows. My test car was fitted with a navigation system which comes at £715 extra.

You also get automatic headlamps and rain sensing wipers and an automatic electric parking brake.

This is a solid and enjoyable vehicle that doesn't look out of place on a suburban driveway and at £19,182 won't break the bank. A good effort which undercuts some of its rivals without sacrificing quality or specification.

Road test by Ian Strachan Communications Ltd

Ian Strachan is a motoring and business writer and PR consultant. He can be contacted on 01543 490932 or 07949 202596 or via email: ian@strachan13.freeserve.co.uk