Home Improvement: The New 2015 Peugeot 3008 Crossover Review [Video]

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The 2015 Peugeot 3008 Crossover is an updated version of the 1st generation as a response to the release of Nissan’s 2nd generation of the class defining Qashqai crossover. Has it still got what it takes to remain competitive in this highly fought over segment?

The original 3008 saw sales over double what Peugeot expected because it offered itself up as a proper 5 door crossover with versatile boot space, an upmarket cabin and the clever Grip Control system as an optional – all at a decent price. Here the 2015 Peugeot 3008 Crossover has had a visual makeover, an extended list of equipment and the option of a Hybrid model to compliment its existing virtues. It’s obvious that despite its age, there is a lot on offer that will certainly pay dividends for anyone buying or getting a Peugeot 3008 Crossover on lease.

Let’s be honest, although it was a hugely successful seller, the original Peugeot 3008 Crossover wasn’t much of a looker with a stubby, dumpy look that made us think that buyers were only taking it to the dance because it’s Father was loaded. But this time round, Daddy has given the 2015 Peugeot 3008 an elegant and more modern facelift. At the size of a Ford Focus, it still retains its chunky silhouette but smart LED signature lighting and chrome touches suggest a certain amount of quality.

When you get inside, the interior of the 2015 Peugeot 3008 Crossover is one of the nicest you’ll find in this class of vehicle. There is a certain pilot-like sensation when sitting in the driver’s seat where the high middle console section and high tech surround you. There’s an infotainment screen that pops up from the dash and the clear heads up display which appears into eye line at the bottom of the windscreen when you turn the car on. That being said, there are definitely a few old school elements to remind you that this car first came out in 2008 such as the stereo removal slots and the distinct lack of steering wheel buttons. There are lots of soft touch elements and metallic highlights which give an upmarket feel to this cabin. The practicality here is also great with around 50ltrs of storage space around the cabin such as the cool sunglasses holder above the door, a 13ltr middle armrest compartment and an under steering wheel compartment that makes up for the somewhat stunted glove box. In the back of the 2015 Peugeot 3008, this continues with a couple of handy underfloor storage boxes in the rear foot wells as well as netting on the back of the front seats which are specially sculpted for an amount of legroom that is impressive for a Crossover. Headroom is also good and you’ll be pleased to know that opting for the beautifully light enhancing panoramic roof won’t encroach on any of that space. The back seats are nicely supportive behind your thighs, but lack the ability to lean or slide back. This might not be the worst thing in the world as the Peugeot 3008 boasts the biggest boot capacity in the segment at 512ltrs (20% more than a Qashqai) which extends to a healthy 1604ltrs with the rear bench folded down. If you have the hybrid model you will obviously have a bit less at 364ltrs due to having to harbour the electrical elements. Other cool practicality features in the boot area include an SUV-like split tail hatch, a ski hatch and a 3 position boot floor (good for adjusting the load to various heights or dividing storage) and a cool little loading bay light that can be removed and used as a rechargeable torch. Very handy!

The 2015 Peugeot 3008 Crossover is based on the idea of the Peugeot 308 but with SUV/MPV elements. One thing’s for sure is that the dimensions mean that it doesn’t drive like one. The Dynamic Roll System does as incredible job of limiting the body roll on a car of this size and shape (always the big question with such a car) while also giving it a surprising amount of on agility. This is aided by precise steering feel and a tight grip to the road. It’s FWD and doesn’t have any genuine 4WD option available. Instead it relies on the clever (and optional) Grip Control system that works by selecting various modes according to the terrain you mean to tackle. This certainly doesn’t make it a proper off roader, but for mild off road work and general all weather traction it is an incredible feature and well worth getting.

Sadly there are no specifically eco-friendly engines available as you can get with a 308, but the engine line up of the 2015 Peugeot 3008 is still strong. There are the entry level 1.6ltr petrol and diesel engines (0-62 in 11.8/ top speed of 115mph) along with the higher 156bhp turbocharged petrol (8.9 seconds/125mph) and the 150bhp 2.0ltr HDi diesel unit (9.7 seconds/121mph). The Hybrid model features a 163bhp 2.0ltr diesel engine driving the front wheels and a 37bhp electric motor working the back wheels. This essentially makes it a form of 4WD. The hybrid can go up to 2½ miles on electric power alone as long as it doesn’t exceed 31mph.

So what’s the low down on the 2015 Peugeot 3008 Crossover? Does it cut the mustard? The general formula of the 3008 was already good enough to be an incredibly strong seller – it was reasonably priced and well suited for fitting in a family. With a much needed facelift plus some unique features such as the Grip Control system, the split rear tailgate and upmarket cabin space; the 2015 Peugeot 3008 Crossover has ensured that it will remain a strong competitor in this segment yet.

If you want to get hold of the 2015 Peugeot 3008 Crossover then don’t hesitate to leave us a message on our contact us page or give us a call on 01903 538835 to find out about our Peugeot lease deals.