For those looking for a spacious and modern SUV in the C-segment, the Peugeot 3008 has been an attractive option since its introduction in 2016. With its distinctive design, smart technology and versatile engine range, the 3008 has quickly become one of Peugeot’s most popular models. Both families and business drivers appreciate this SUV for its mix of comfort, ease of use and appearance.
Is the Peugeot 3008 a good choice?
The Peugeot 3008 has been a fixture in the C-segment SUV range since 2016. For Peugeot, it represents a striking shift away from the MPV towards a modern and stylish SUV. With its distinctive design, modern technology and wide range of engines, the 3008 is a common sight on Dutch roads.
What is immediately striking about the 3008 is its progressive design, with the interior with the ‘i-Cockpit’ giving the brand a recognizable face. A compact steering wheel and a digital instrument panel determine the dashboard, which appeals to some and takes some getting used to for others due to the legibility of the clocks and the seating position. The dashboard is finished with soft fabrics, Alcantara and aluminum, which creates a premium feel. Thanks to a luggage space that varies from 520 to 1,482 liters, the 3008 can be used well as a family car, while AGR seats with adjustable functions offer extra comfort during longer journeys.
In terms of technology, the 3008 is in no way inferior to its competitors. For example, the digital instrument panel is standard, as are driving assistance systems such as Active Safety Brake and Lane Departure Warning. Those who want can further expand with options such as adaptive cruise control or Night Vision. In practice, the infotainment system is sometimes a bit slow, and not every function turns out to be necessary, such as the parking systems. The ease of use of the digital system in particular is a point of attention.
Under the hood there is enough choice for different wishes: from the economical 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder to the more powerful 1.6 PureTech four-cylinder for those looking for more power and the plug-in hybrid with up to 300 hp. Since 2023 there has also been a mild hybrid, where the combustion engine is slightly supported by an electric motor for lower fuel consumption.
The driving experience of the Peugeot 3008 is generally described as comfortable, with a chassis that effectively smooths out bumps. However, versions with larger wheels – for example the 19-inch variant – show that the suspension comfort feels a little less pleasant on poor road surfaces.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Peugeot 3008 has something for everyone. Until the facelift (until 2021) you can choose from a wide range of petrol engines: there is the popular 1.2 PureTech with 130 hp, but also the more powerful 1.6 e-THP with 165 hp and the 1.6 PureTech with 180 hp. For diesel drivers there are three options: the 1.6 BlueHDI with 120 hp, the 1.5 BlueHDI with 130 hp and the 2.0 BlueHDI with 180 hp.
Those looking for more efficiency or power can opt for one of the plug-in hybrids, available as HYbrid with 225 hp and as an extra powerful HYbrid 300 hp variant. These have a battery pack that you can charge with a plug, allowing you to drive fully electrically for a while.
After the facelift (from 2021) the well-known 1.2 PureTech with 130 hp is retained and the range is expanded with a new 1.2 engine that delivers 136 hp. The 1.6 PureTech with 180 hp also remains available. On the diesel side you will now only find the 1.5 BlueHDI with 130 hp. Good to know: the plug-in hybrids remain unchanged, so you can still opt for both the HYbrid 225 hp and the HYbrid 300 hp after the facelift model.
Space and practical usability
The Peugeot 3008 excels in terms of space and ease of use. Despite its relatively compact exterior dimensions, the SUV offers a surprisingly spacious interior with plenty of head and legroom, both front and rear.
The luggage space varies from 520 to no less than 1,482 liters with the rear seats folded down, making the 3008 flexibly usable for shopping, vacations or daily family life. Thanks to the flat loading floor and the wide tailgate, loading is easy, and smart storage compartments ensure that small items are always within reach.
Reliability and problems
The biggest problem the Peugeot 3008 faces is the timing belt of the 1.2 PureTech engines. These have a so-called ‘wet belt’, which runs through the engine oil. Contaminated oil can cause the timing belt to crumble, causing pieces to end up in the oil channels. This can cause major damage. In some cases you even have to replace the entire engine.
Diesels sometimes have the problem that the particulate filter gets clogged. This is especially the case with cars with high mileage. If the particulate filter needs to be replaced, this is also quite expensive.
