By Khulekani Dumisa (@dumisa_khulekani)

It is an open secret that Peugeot hasn’t had the best run lately. Peugeot continues to suffer from largely negative perceptions about the brand and French cars in general. Since the launch of the new Peugeot 2008 SUV, things have started looking up. Last month Peugeot reported 71 sales. Although not sustainable in the long run, his is nothing to be sneered at considering that the likes of Mitsubishi reported a mere 46 sales in the same period.

The Peugeot 2008 SUV was meant to turn things around for Peugeot but perhaps due to its station wagon like appearance, it hasn’t been able to do that. Peugeot have called out the 2008 SUV’s bigger brother, the Peugeot 3008 SUV, to inspire the magic that dispels the negative perceptions and propels the brand to greater heights. Local car launches are usually not for top management but it was not surprising to see the MD of Peugeot Citroen South Africa, Francisco Gaie, at the launch of the new Peugeot 3008 SUV. You could tell from his mood that he believes so much in the car and its ability to turn things around for his marque. I think he may not have to do much selling. The Peugeot 3008 SUV is a beautiful vehicle inside out and comes to South Africa having already bagged 2017 European Car of the Year.

Peugeot is launching three versions of the Peugeot 3008 SUV, the Active, the Allure and the GT Line. As you would have guessed, true to the French car approach, even the entry level has an impressive list of specs. You will find features such as electric mirrors, automatic wipers with rain sensor and daytime running lights as standard on the entry level Active. The Allure steps things up by adding aluminium pedals, front and rear central armrests, front and rear parking sensors and, stop and start. For the top spec GT Line, you will be treated to an aviation style handbrake, on-board navigation, full feather upholstery and cornering assist fog lights as standard features. Although not off-roaders, the Allure+ and GT Line+ models benefit from Peugeot’s Advanced Grip Control which is designed to enhance the car’s traction system and allow it to cope better with challenging terrain like snow, mud and sand.

All versions of the Peugeot 3008 SUV have been launched with one engine, a 1.6 turbo petrol with 121 kW and 240 Nm. The engine has enough power and you do not have to do much to feel that power, especially when overtaking. To be honest this is all Peugeot needs for the 3008 SUV but you cannot be taken seriously in these circles unless you are offering a credible diesel option. Peugeot is aware of this and will be bringing the diesel option early 2018.

The 3008 SUV has ample space in the cabin for 5 adult occupants. The boot is also decent. Although the car has shed some 100 kilograms in weight, luggage space has improved. The 30087 SUV has luggage capacity of 520 litres with the luggage cover. This is almost 90 litres bigger than the previous generation. With the luggage cover and the second row of seats folded flat, the luggage space extends to a massive 1,670 litres.

My impression is that Peugeot have executed themselves very well with the 3008 SUV. The car is beautiful both inside and outside. The curvy lines combine well with assertive grille that dominates the front of the car. Step inside, you are greeted by a quality, modern yet easy to use interior. The standard virtual cockpit called Peugeot i-Cockpit makes for a functional and entertaining interior, and the piano dials add a touch of class to this as well. The car is a pleasure to drive thanks to the small steering wheel which improves visibility and legroom for the driver, and gives it a go-cart feel although it is a decently sized SUV. The drive can feel a bit harsh at times but will not make you feel uncomfortable or regretting your choice.

The Peugeot 3008 SUV is priced is as follows:

–   Active  1.6 THP Auto: R399,900

–       Allure  1.6 THP Auto: R444,900

–       Allure+  1.6 THP Auto: R464,900

–       GT Line  1.6 THP Auto: R499,900

–       GT Line+  1.6 THP Auto: R569,900

The prices include a 4 year / 60,000 kilometres service plan, a 3 year / 100,000 kilometres manufacturer warranty, 3 year roadside assistance and a 12 year anti-perforation warranty. An optional 5 year / 100,000 kilometres full maintenance plan is also available.