Peugeot 3008 overview
If you want a compact SUV that stands out from the crowd and offers premium quality for a not-so-premium outlay, then the Peugeot 3008 is a family car that's worth trying. The current model is the second generation, which was launched in 2016 and facelifted in 2020, but Peugeot has given it some more tweaks to keep it fresh for the 2022 model year.
As well as a slightly updated look, the main news is that the 3008 is now available with a choice of two hybrid powertrains. The 300hp four-wheel-drive Hybrid4 model is still on offer, but it has been joined by a lower-powered, lower-priced 225hp Hybrid2 that's front-wheel drive only. It has a 0-100km/h time of 8.8 seconds (the Hybrid4 takes 6.1 seconds), while emissions of 29-31g/km are the same as they are for the more powerful plug-in model, resulting in low motor tax.
As well as less power, the Hybrid2 also has a smaller battery, measuring 11.6kWh in capacity, compared with 13.2kWh for the Hybrid4. Peugeot quotes a WLTP-tested all-electric range of between 50-60km for the front-wheel-drive model, which isn't far behind the 63km quoted for the Hybrid4, while charging the battery usually takes three hours and 45 minutes, or as little as one hour 45 min when the optional 7.4kW charging system is fitted to the car.
The plug-in hybrid SUV market is a busy one, and the 3008 Hybrids have a lot of tough competition. Among the best are the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage PHEVs, which share the same petrol-electric running gear, while the Ford Kuga and Toyota RAV4 also have plug-in options. The Honda CR-V, and some versions of the RAV4, are conventional hybrids that can't be plugged in. Meanwhile, the Citroen C5 Aircross, DS 7 Crossback and Opel Grandland X all use the same tech as the 3008, while the Volkswagen Group's plug-in SUVs come in the shape of the VW Tiguan and Cupra Formentor PHEVs.
In top-spec GT trim, the new Peugeot 3008 Hybrid2 offers a saving of around €7,000 over the Hybrid4, but unlike the all-wheel-drive model, it's also available in even more affordable Allure trim, which is what we're testing here.
The Peugeot 3008 model range
Irish pricing for the Peugeot 3008 starts at €39,820 for a 1.2 PureTech petrol model in Active trim, but you need to add more than €8,000 to that if you want a plug-in hybrid. For that, you get a Hybrid2 model in Allure trim, which is pretty well equipped.
As standard, the Allure model features 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a black contrast roof, partial synthetic leather trim, fabric trim for the dashtop and door panels, a folding front passenger seat to take longer loads, blue ambient lighting, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, voice control, a 12.3-inch digital dashboard, two-zone climate control and a suite of safety systems. These include lane assist, attention assist, speed limit recognition, auto main beam, blind spot detection and automated emergency braking.
Move to top-spec GT trim, and the Hybrid2 adds adaptive cruise control with stop-start assist, extra USB sockets, different wheels and a tweaked grille design, uprated interior trim and Grip Control, which is a switchable traction control system that optimises the car's electronics for different surfaces.
Currently there are 4.9 per cent APR finance offers on the 3008 Hybrid2 that can get you behind the wheel for €45 per month (subject to deposit and status), but go to the Peugeot Ireland website for the latest offers.
The Peugeot 3008 interior
Peugeot has made a reputation for itself in recent years for producing classy cabins, and it was the second-generation 3008 that started this move upmarket. The current car feels special, challenging the likes of Audi and BMW with its premium feel.
As ever, though, Peugeot's i-Cockpit layout could make or break any prospective purchase. The set-up sees the dials set high on the dashboard, so you look at them over the rim of steering wheel, rather than through it, but this layout won't suit every driving position. The layout is easier to get along with in the 3008 than in some other Peugeot models, but we'd recommend you try before you buy.
If you can live with the i-Cockpit, then the 3008's interior is a great place to spend time. The digital dials look great, the bank of toggle switches below the main touchscreen are a neat touch and satisfying to use, while the cabin has plenty of space for passengers and a very large 591-litre boot, too.
The Peugeot 3008 Hybrid driving experience
Nobody buys a family-friendly compact SUV expecting engaging handling, and adding a heavy plug-in hybrid drivetrain doesn't do the 3008 any favours, either. The car's small steering wheel gives the impression that the 3008 is going to be sporty, but it's only fitted to help you see the dials. While acceleration is impressive when both the electric motor and petrol engine are working together, most of the time the 3008 is refined and quiet.
This is especially the case when running in electric-only mode. We found that you can realistically expect a range of 50km from a full charge, and as ever with plug-in hybrids, if you plug the 3008 in religiously, you'll reap the benefits of that electric drivetrain.
Peugeot has added a Sport mode that you can switch to for faster response, but it's not really that kind of car. There's also a mode that allows you to recharge the battery while driving, although this setting will impact your fuel economy. We found that it's best to just let the hybrid system manage its energy flow automatically to deliver the most efficient running.
Our verdict on the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid
The Peugeot 3008 Hybrid2 makes a strong case for itself as a family-friendly, low-emissions compact SUV. It looks smart, has a unique interior - although we'll leave it to you to see if the dashboard layout suits - and plenty of space for family life. This Hybrid2 model offers better value for money than the Hybrid4, but it delivers similar efficiency, as long as you keep that battery topped up. However, the petrol and diesel 3008s are cheaper still, so they could suit more buyers.
