Peugeot E-3008 Allure review

The Peugeot 3008 is Peugeot Ireland’s best-selling model and now there is a new model on sale. Available in petrol mild hybrid and fully electric versions, the new 3008 has sharper coupe-like styling and retains its premium appeal with a smart new cabin design.

I drove the 3008 in France in early 2024, but now I have time to spend more time on Irish roads in its entry-level Allure trim.

The new era of 3008

Times have changed, and the new 3008 is the first model not sold with a diesel engine. The entry into the range is now a 1.2-litre petrol mild hybrid with a six-speed automatic gearbox, priced from €43,995 in the Allure trim level.

The new all-electric E-3008 is not that much more expensive, starting at €44,995, and still offers a range of up to 527 kilometers in its most basic form.

The 3008 has evolved into a coupe-SUV that ditches the traditional boxy SUV silhouette for a sharply sloping roofline that makes the car more aerodynamic. At the front, the new LED lighting is clearly different from the iconic Peugeot “claw” daytime running lights.

Photos don’t do it justice, as in the metal it has a smart, compact stance, enhanced by a range of colors including new Ingaro Blue. But the design is really set off by the jewel-like Obsession Blue, which also happens to be the standard color.

Allure models are well equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, body-coloured grille and roof spoiler. Among its rivals, it’s a very stylish and upscale car, and the more time you spend in it, the more you spend time with it, it becomes something special.

Peugeot E-3008 interior

In terms of interior, the new panoramic i-Cockpit that really shines in the 3008 is Peugeot’s flagship product at this stage. It feels like the cabin wraps around you, creating a comfortable, sporty feel at the wheel. There’s a compact steering wheel and 21-inch screens, including a digital driver’s display in front of you that’s integrated into the central touchscreen. There are a lot of beautiful fabrics and materials used so the feel is top notch.

Technology features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. Most of the car’s functions can be accessed via the screen, such as media, maps and ventilation controls, but Peugeot’s clever ‘i-Toggle’ switch allows you to create convenient shortcuts to your favorite functions from the digital panel below.

Allure models include wireless smartphone charging, keyless entry and dual-zone climate control, with air vents for rear passengers. Heated front seats are optionally available for €450.

The car has room for three people in the back, although some rivals do feel airier and roomier for rear-seat passengers. There are Isofix on the two outboard seats. Surprisingly, the Allure model does not offer a pull-down armrest, but the rear seats do fold in a 40:20:40 split.

The 520-litre boot provides plenty of space for a family car. GT models add a powered tailgate with motion sensors.

Driving the new E-3008

On the road, the E-3008 feels more like the top end of the segment in terms of refinement and handling. The well-weighted steering makes for a tidy, agile ride, making it easy to park around town or navigate country roads. It’s not the softest-sprung SUV, but bumps in the road cause only minor disturbances inside.

210 horsepower at the front wheels sounds healthy enough, but in reality the 3008 is not a car designed for fast performance, especially in normal or eco-friendly conditions. Sport mode does feel more lively, so it’s great for overtaking or getting onto the motorway quickly.

The electric 3008’s driving experience is quiet and smooth. It uses a 73kWh battery, and based on consumption data recorded during my test drive, its actual range is close to 412 kilometers. Combined with fast charging, that’s enough for many people, but a longer-range version will be launched in 2025.

Driving aids such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring are included as standard.

The AC charging power can reach 11kW, while the DC fast charging power can reach 160kW, which can charge 20% to 80% in 30 minutes. It doesn’t charge as fast as the Tesla Model Y, but it’s good enough.

All in all, the new Peugeot 3008 offers customers a choice, whether it’s all-electric or sticks with a petrol hybrid for the time being. It’s still better than most rivals in terms of design and cabin finish – it’s hard to pinpoint its features entirely, but it feels great inside and the quality is very good for the class. It’s a pleasure to drive, especially with the smoothness and refinement the E-3008 offers.

Competition is fierce these days, but the 3008’s bestseller status seems to be firmly established.

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Screenplay by Caroline Kidd

Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Irish Car of the Year Judge

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