Peugeot Is Back To Compete In The SUV Segment With The 3008 And 5008

Some time ago, we were invited to a media drive to test the all-new Peugeot 3008 and 5008 sports utility vehicles (SUV), and the results were fantastic.

The media drive organised by Bermaz Auto Alliance started from Glenmarie, Shah Alam, Selangor to Genting Highlands and back to Arte Mont Kiara for lunch before returning to Glenmarie.

18 media took part in this drive, and due to the strict standard operating procedures, each media was assigned to one car. We had the opportunity to drive the 5008 to Genting and experienced the 3008 coming down from Genting.

The Peugeot 3008 and 5008 are powered by the 1.6-litre direct-injection Turbo High Pressure (THP) engine mated to the six-speed automatic transmission. It generates 165 hp and 240 Nm of torque, sending its power to the front wheels.

Compared to its pre-facelifted version, the locally assembled byStellantis SUVs are equipped with updated full LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, Full LED taillights with sequential turn indicator, frameless grille, height-programmable powered tailgate with kick sensors and parking sensors around the SUVs.

All media gathered in Glenmarie for breakfast and briefing, then proceed to a group photoshoot with the organizer before heading to the test units for flag-off to Genting Highlands.

When we got into the cabin, we were impressed with the spaciousness and interior design. It gives an elegant, futuristic and comfortable feel.

Both the 5008 and 3008 are equipped with the i-Cockpit that consists of the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, wireless Qi charging, a mix of leather, rubber and fabric upholstery, multifunction leather steering wheel, powered adjusted leather seats, powered panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents (for 5008), electrochromic rear-view mirror, paddle shifters, blue ambient lighting, cooled storage centre armrest and five traction modes.

The interior feels solid and modern. The flat top and bottom steering wheel, gear shifter and piano switches give an impression of a spacecraft cabin one may see in some science fiction movies or comics. The design is driver-centric, and the driver can easily reach all controls and buttons.

After the flag-off, we immediately felt the smoothness of the transmission and engine as we accelerated to NKVE, making our way to Genting Highlands. Without a doubt, the engine is powerful enough to reach over the legal speed limit with ease, and the changes of gears were smooth, we didn't feel any jerks during the gear switch.

The 5008 has no issues overtaking traffics on the highway or even when ascending Genting Highlands. It sits firmly on the ground, sticking on the road as if it was nailed to the floor. We must also highlight that this SUV feels like handling a sedan instead of an SUV.

After we reached one of Genting Highlands' parking areas, all media took the opportunity to photoshoot the SUVs. After a short break, we swapped to a 3008 and headed to Mont Kiara for lunch.

The interior of the 3008 felt the same as the 5008, and the space and the design were excellent. At this point, most readers are wondering what is the difference between the two? Apart from the price and the rear air vents, the difference between the 5008 and 3008 is that the former is a 5+2 seater while the 3008 is a five-seater.

In terms of dimension, the 5008 is 160mm longer, 5mm wider, 27mm taller and 110mm difference in wheelbase. The 3008 has 591 litres of boot space with all seats up, while the 5008 has 952 litres of boot space with the last row folded.

The drive from Genting Highlands to Mont Kiara was smooth and quiet, even at high speeds, no road noise nor tyre noise were heard. However, there was only minimal wind noise. In Sport mode, the engine roars, maintaining its engine at high revs.

We must also highlight the massive centre armrest compartment. It is the largest and deepest we have seen so far. It can easily store a 13-inch or maybe even a 15-inch laptop, about 40 cm deep or half an adult's arm. Having the wireless Qi charging bay was also a fabulous idea; we can charge the phone by placing it on top of the platform.

As for the safety aspects, both the 3008 and 5008 are fitted with the blind spot monitoring system, active lane-keeping assist, hill descent control, six airbags, reverse camera, driver attention warning, anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist, dynamic stability control, anti-skid regulation, advance grip control, auto door lock, seat belt warning and ISOFIX child seats mounting points.

The all-new Peugeot 3008 is priced at RM 161,616, and the 5008 is retailed at RM 177,311, both prices are inclusive of the sales tax exemption that has been extended to June 30, 2022. Every 3008 and 5008 are covered by a five-year or 100,000km, whichever comes first manufacturer's warranty and a three-year or 60,000km, whichever comes first free maintenance.

There are three standard colours and one exclusive model colour to choose from. The standard colours are Amazonite Grey, Pearl White and Nera Black, while the exclusive to 3008 colour is Cuprite Brown and Emerald Crytal for the 5008.

Overall, we felt that the Peugeot 3008 and 5008 are amazing SUVs, and they will compete in the SUV market very well. However, some features are missing that would make the SUV perfect. We felt that it would be excellent if it comes with a wireless function for the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. On top of that, it will be better if the SUV comes equipped with adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking. Lastly, we would suggest giving more colour options for the ambient lighting.