- Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4
With the arrival of a diesel hybrid engine can the Peugeot 3008 really deliver on the seductive promise of off road capability, performance and economy?
What is it?
Crossovers are fast becoming one of the most popular cars on the road with their rugged SUV styling and MPV practicality. Winner of Irish Car of the Year 2010, the Peugeot 3008 is one of the best of the current crop of crossovers.
Who is it aimed at?
The 3008 is already a great option for families but now with breakthrough hybrid technology it combines incredible mileage and ultra low emissions making it suitable for just about anyone.
Styling?
Its not the most stylish car around but it is distinctive.
Under the Bonnet?
This is a car that breaks new ground with a Diesel Hybrid, the first such hybrid in the world. There is a 2.0 litre HDi diesel engine 122kW (163bhp) to the front as you expect in a conventional diesel car but there is also an electric motor 27kW (37 bhp) mounted to the rear axle so power comes from both of these engines.
The 3008 Hybrid 4 is powered by a 2.0 litre HDi diesel engine and an electric motor
What’s it like inside?
Behind the enormous steering wheel is a good driving position and excellent all round visibility. Everything is clearly laid out and easy to use. The overall feeling is one of supreme comfort; from the soft leather to the chrome-like surrounds it all feels expensive and classy. Space throughout is great and the split tailgate makes the boot even more accessible. Boot space with the seats in place is a decent 354 litres, this rises to 1435 litre with the seats down.
On the Road?
On the road the car is good to drive and handles wells. The automatic gearbox takes a little getting used to as it requires you to adapt your driving style to it. There are four unique settings available for on the road driving, each selected from a rotary dial in the centre console. There is a pure electric mode ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) that is suitable for short journeys, Auto which is the default mode and means both engines, the electric and the diesel, are automatically controlled. The four wheel drive mode means the rear wheels are driven by the electric motor and the front wheels by the diesel engine. Finally in the sport mode a blend of the diesel engine with the electric motor provides more dynamic performance and directs power to all four wheels depending on requirements.
And safety?
Safety is well catered for with 6 smart safety airbags to protect you and your passengers and the maximum five star rating from the EuroNcap ensures a excellent overall standard.
What about fuel economy?
Fuel economy is an incredible 3.8 litres per 100km (74.4 mpg) on a combined cycle. We never managed anything near this for the week we drove it but as we discovered the harder you drive the car the more it punishes you in terms of fuel economy so the message is clear!
Okay so the verdict?
The Peugeot 3008 combines the best aspects of an SUV, MPV and a regular hatchback and is a very clever car. Inside it is beautifully finished, it’s good to drive, has incredible space and now with the diesel hybrid it is a truly impressive car.
Competitors: Opel Ampera; Chevrolet Volt
Why you’ll buy one? Economical; Versatile; Spacious
Why you won’t? It’s a tad plain on the outside, but seriously we’re struggling to find a real reason.
LAST WORD: The Peugeot 3008 offers versatility and value in equal measure and is one of the most family-friendly cars around.
PEUGEOT 3008 HYBRID4
Engine: 1997cc diesel engine putting out 122kW @ 3,850rpm and 300Nm of torque combined with a 27Kw electric motor transmission is a six-speed robotised automatic gearbox
Max speed: 191km/h
0-100km/h: 8.5 seconds
Emissions (motor tax): 104g/km (€160)
Starting price: €36,995
Model price range: €36,995 – €38,695
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: 5
Fuel type: Diesel/Electric
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 3.8 litres per 100km
Boot Capacity Seats up (seats down): 354 litres (1435 litres)
Car Seats: Isofix is in the back for two car seats and both are easy to use
Length: 4365(mm)
Width: 1837(mm)
Height: 1639(mm)
Wheelbase: 2613 (mm)
23rd May, 2012
