PEUGEOT 3008 | Peugeot 3008 Impression | A Fresh Take on the Multipurpose Vehicle
CAR / IMPRESSION
February 24, 2015

PEUGEOT 3008 | Peugeot 3008 Impression | A Fresh Take on the Multipurpose Vehicle


PEUGEOT 3008


A Fresh Take on the Multi-Purpose Vehicle (1)


The crossover vehicle, a first for Peugeot, the 3008, was launched on June 1, 2010, by Peugeot Citroën Japan. It features a multi-purpose design that combines the sporty driving feel of a sedan with the spacious interior and high eye-point of other vehicle types.


By Fumio OgawaPhotos by Masayuki Arakawa




Blending Sedan, MPV, and SUV Appeal



The Peugeot 3008 (starting from ¥3.39 million) is a model developed based on the previously released Peugeot 308. It is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a turbocharger, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and is front-wheel drive. It features a two-row, five-seat configuration, with no sliding mechanism for the rear seats. This allows for a larger cargo space, enhancing the practicality of the luggage area.

The wheelbase of the 4,365mm long body is 2,615mm. While not as long as the 308 SW's 2,710mm, it is 5mm longer than the sedan's. The tall boy style results in a height of 1,635mm, which is 120mm taller than the hatchback. The engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with a turbocharger, producing a maximum output of 156ps at 6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 240Nm at 1,400–3,500rpm.








Responsive and Sporty Handling



The handling feel is surprisingly sporty, even more so than the 308 SW. By increasing the number of universal joints from the usual two to three, it avoids the steering wheel becoming too horizontal, resulting in a more car-like driving position.

The first impression of sportiness comes from the quick steering response when cornering. To prevent excessive body roll due to the higher center of gravity, it employs 'Dynamic Roll Control.' This system mechanically links the two dampers of the torsion beam rear suspension and adjusts hydraulic pressure. During cornering, it increases damping force to improve road holding. In straight-line driving, it provides a supple ride.

Its agility on winding roads is remarkable, making it easy to follow the desired line. This creates a satisfying driving sensation. Unlike a minivan, the sensation of being glued to the road, despite the vehicle's 1,635mm height, is something Peugeot clearly intended.





PEUGEOT 3008


A Fresh Take on the Multi-Purpose Vehicle (2)



Supple Suspension Enhances Ride Comfort


The surprisingly comfortable ride is another noteworthy aspect of the 3008. In recent years, Peugeot's suspension settings have tended to be a bit firm, picking up on road imperfections. However, the 3008 is considerably more supple, gliding over bumps without shock. While the Dynamic Control likely contributes to this, the recently updated 308 SW, also equipped with a 6-speed AT, offers a more comfortable ride, suggesting a general revision of the suspension settings.

The 156ps direct-injection four-cylinder engine feels powerful. Equipped with a turbocharger and set to deliver maximum torque from 1,400rpm, it is very user-friendly. Peugeot claims it offers 'driving performance exceeding that of a naturally aspirated 2-liter engine, with high fuel efficiency.' In reality, the strong torque band begins from around 3,000rpm. Here, with just a slight movement of the accelerator pedal, the car accelerates powerfully despite its 1.5-ton weight. Unlike the MINI, which shares the same 1.6-liter unit as its basic design, Peugeot has incorporated its Valvetronic system, and there are no performance concerns.








Improved Comfort and a New Face


Comfort is also a major selling point. The 'newness' of the 3008 is evident in its remarkable quietness. Mechanical noise from the engine and gearbox is dramatically reduced compared to the previous 308 series. Wind noise around the A-pillars and mirrors is also well suppressed. This alone elevates the sense of luxury.

The lineup consists of two grades, differentiated by their equipment. The 3008 Premium (¥3.39 million) features fabric seats and 17-inch wheels. In contrast, the 3008 Griffe (¥3.85 million) comes standard with leather seats and 18-inch wheels. Additionally, the Griffe is equipped with bi-xenon headlamps that illuminate the direction of travel and parking sensors. The panoramic glass roof, measuring 1,202mm wide and 1,382mm long, is standard equipment.

The front fascia of the 3008 also adopts a design theme quite different from Peugeot's usual lineup. The four-digit model name, typically reserved for multi-purpose vehicles, suggests it's poised to create a new lifestyle.




PEUGEOT 3008
Body | Length 4,365 x Width 1,835 x Height 1,635mm
Engine | 1.6L Inline 4-cylinder + Turbocharger
Max Output | 115kW [156ps] / 6,000rpm
Max Torque | 240Nm [24.5kgm] / 1,400–3,500rpm
Drivetrain | FWD
Transmission | 6-speed AT
Price | From ¥3.39 million



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