Great looking Peugeot 5008 is prestige motor
Those of us writing about Peugeot for the last few years know about the real exec quality in the higher end models. It seems the message is getting home to the general public as well, writes Bill McCarthy.
Based on the stunning, 3008, but obviously longer to accommodate seven, the MPV has morphed into SUV/crossover territory, and is almost as good looking as the smaller sibling.
If there is a criticism it is that the back end lacks the streamlining of the smaller model, but if you want to seat seven, compromises have to be made. But it still looks good and is more than capable of doing the job it was designed for.
Trim levels include two mainstream versions Active, and the Allure model here, plus GT Line, GT and the latest GT Line Premium,
Like its siblings the big people mover offers high end technology in the shape of the latest virtual cockpit. A digital screen set up which can be customised to whatever the driver wants.
You could be forgiven for thinking it’s a 3008 from a distance with familiar familiar cat's eye headlight clusters, cat's claw rear lights, long swooping bonnet with large grille, integrated roof bars and alloy wheels.
For this mid-range model, the interior is impressive with the eight-inch high resolution central touchscreen, which controls major functions like sat nav, app connectivity with the Mirror Screen function and 3D connected, navigation system and infotainment.
In addition there is the compact, multi function steering wheel, with manual paddles and digital dials which can be customised to the driver’s desire.
Packed with equipment including 360-degree parking camera, air con, powered windows and door mirrors, interior blinds and foldable tables, it offers comfort and practicality.
Ambient lighting makes a relaxing atmosphere with firm but body-hugging leather-effect seats.
Although slightly longer than the original, this is no bus and handles with car-like manners.
Powered by a gutsy two-litre diesel engine mated with an eight speed auto gearbox, it delivers decent performance. Economy was nowhere near the near-60mpg official figures, which is nearly always wrong in the real world anyway, but I struggled to get mid-40s over a decent period of time.
However, as you can switch to sport and paddle mode for better performance, my heavy right foot might explain that.
It is hugely practical with three matching, separate, folding seats in the second row, adjustable in length and inclination and two removable, separate, folding seats in the third row to offer huge capacity of 952 litres with the seats in place to 2,150 litres with all the rear seats down.
All are seated pretty comfortably although the rearmost two would only be comfortable for shorter journeys.
There is also plenty of other storage space around the cabin including cup holders, rear trays and large, cooled box under the central armrest.
As with all Peugeots, there is a raft of safety equipment including a full range of airbags, and stability control an even the slightly irritating lane departure control.
A great package and a great looking practical car, even if you should only gently caress the accelerator.
The last word should go to may pal. ‘It looks like a prestige motor.’
FAST FACTS
Peugeot 5008 2.0 BlueHDi 180 Allure
Price: £33,399
Mechanical: 180bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 8-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 136mph
0-62mph: 9.2 seconds
Combined mpg: 57.6
Insurance group: 22e
CO2 emissions: 129g/km
BiK rating: 23%
Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 mile
