First drive: Peugeot's 5008 offers a quirky and practical alternative in the SUV market

What is it?

The new, second-generation Peugeot 5008 is the French manufacturer’s flagship SUV — ahead of the 3008 and 2008.

Although visually and mechanically similar to the 3008, it offers more space and practicality thanks to its larger form and seven seats.

The French manufacturer is branding it as the alternative choice in the C segment, offering a less-conventional look and interior to its rivals.

What’s new?

Practically everything is new on the 5008 — even the body style. The first-generation of the car was an MPV, but the new version is now an SUV to keep up with market trends.

It takes on Peugeot’s new styling direction as well as a newly designed cabin which includes an updated version of the French manufacturer’s I-Cockpit system and a squared, compact steering wheel to give the impression of driving a more dynamic car.

What’s under the bonnet?

Five engine options are available for the 5008. There’s two petrol choices: a three-cylinder 1.2-litre engine available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, as well as four-cylinder 1.6-lite unit, available with the automatic gearbox.

Three diesel engines are on offer: a 1.5-litre coupled to a six-speed manual, a 1.6-litre available with a manual or automatic and the range-topping 2.0-litre which comes with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

We drove the 1.2-litre petrol with a manual gearbox, producing 131bhp and 230Nm of torque — resulting in a 0-60mph time of 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 117mph, with fuel economy claimed at 55.4mpg and CO₂ emissions of 124g/km.

It’s a versatile unit, at no point struggling to pull the 5008 along — even when left in higher gears. The gearbox itself felt direct to use, but sometimes had a rubber band-feel to it resulting in the occasional difficulty selecting gear.

What’s it like to drive?

For such a big car, it’s nice to say the 5008 feels much like a smaller vehicle behind the wheel. Thanks to nicely weighted steering and the small, squared wheel, the driving experience is a lot more dynamic than you would normally expect of a car this size.

Even sport mode lives up to the name, making for a pretty fun time behind the wheel. Our only gripe with it is when using the paddles for the auto ‘box, it’s a little hesitant to downshift.

It’s easy to take around town too, thanks to great visibility and a host of parking aids.

How does it look?

Much like the 3008 launched earlier this year, the 5008 has a look which Peugeot hopes will take it more upmarket.

It certainly does appear premium on first glance — thanks to sharp styling and a somewhat elegant stance. It’s no head turner, but it’s a good-looking car and certainly a step up from the old 5008.

Peugeot are hoping the new look will help shake off certain negative stereotypes about the brand, and we’d be inclined to think the 5008 will do the trick — it’s certainly going to have more street cred than previous cars from the French manufacturer.

What’s it like inside?

Inside the 5008 is an experience not quite like any other in the C segment.

Straight away you’ll notice the squared steering wheel, cocooned driver’s area and Peugeot’s trademark I-Cockpit in place of analog dials.

Cabin quality is excellent, with good quality materials used throughout — although some plastics have a strange rubbery feel and while the fabric inserts look good, we fear that one spilled milkshake from a child in the back may change that permanently.

There’s plenty of space for cargo, too. With a class leading 1,060 litres of boot space, you should have no issue packing everyday items. Not only that, but the rear seat row is completely removable, as are two of three in the middle and even the front passenger seat fold downs for extra-long cargo.

Cabin storage isn’t quite as good though, with a few shallow armrest pockets and a glovebox that consists mostly of a fuse box.

What’s the spec like?

The Peugeot 5008 comes very well equipped for its price point, regardless of the trim level.

Headline standard features include LED daytime running lights, infotainment with Bluetooth connectivity and lane-departure warning.

Our test car was in GT-Line trim, which included Peugeot’s (sensational) newly updated I-Cockpit display system, full LED headlights, a Focal sound system and leather seats with massage function — which are pricey at £1,990 but in our view, are worth every penny.

Verdict

The Peugeot 5008 succeeds in its goal of offering a quirkier and less-conventional option in the SUV market.

It may not have the go-anywhere ability of the Nissan X-Trail, the driving dynamics of the Skoda Kodiaq or (as hard as Peugeot may try) the badge appeal of the Volkswagen Touareg, but what it does have is a unique and elegant package combined with tons of practicality.

If your driving is primarily done in the city and you’re in the SUV market, the 5008 may be the perfect fit.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Model: Peugeot  5008 GT Line PureTech 130 s/s
Price as tested: £28,195
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol
Power (bhp): 131
Torque (Nm): 230
Max speed (mph): 117
0-60mph: 10.9 seconds
MPG (combined): 55.4
Emissions (g/km): 124