2021 Peugeot 3008 review

The updated 2021 Peugeot 3008 line-up makes quite an impression, but so does its price tag

Mid-sized SUVs dominate the car market with close to 30 brands offering a plethora of model options. Even with a top product it’s hard to attract attention – and Peugeot’s 3008 and 5008 are perfect examples.

Launched in 2017, the Peugeot 3008 made an immediate impression with fresh styling compared to the Japanese and Korean brands, and on-road dynamics and performance that gave away little to the market leaders. The launch of the roomier 5008 in 2018 increased choice, yet sales figures remained modest.

Peugeot executives believe this latest refresh will reignite interest in the range. It follows the familiar convention of ‘top and tail’ mid-life upgrades and includes redesigned LED headlamps, grille and front bumper, plus rear lamps that are now LEDs operating in sequence.

Two new colours increase the paint options to eight for the 3008. Metallic paint is an extra $690, while premium paint (Pearl White, Ultimate Red and Vertigo Blue) jumps to $1050.

2021 Peugeot 3008 safety and tech

Interior upgrades include fine-tuning Peugeot’s electronic dashboard for better visibility and a larger 10-inch touchscreen. Seat fabric has changed on the Allure model, while the GT features Alcantara/leather effect upholstery, and Nappa leather comes standard on the GT Sport.

Safety has been enhanced with Peugeot’s latest version of adaptive cruise control, lane positioning assistance and automatic emergency braking. Both the 3008 and 5008 have a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

How much does the 2021 Peugeot 3008 cost?

Pricing for the 3008 has increased slightly and sees the Allure starting at $44,990 (up $1000), the GT petrol at $47,990, the diesel at $50,990, and the range-topping GT Sport at $54,990.

2021 Peugeot 3008 engine options

The engine line-up includes petrol and diesel, with the petrol engine offered in two outputs dependent on grades. The Allure’s 1.6-litre turbo engine produces 121kW and 240Nm and is matched to a six-speed auto.

In the GT and GT Sport, outputs have increased to 133kW and 250Nm using an eight-speed automatic instead of the Allure’s six-speed. The GT diesel features a 2.0-litre engine developing 131kW and 400Nm.

The interior continues to be driver focused. The small steering wheel, adjustable for tilt and reach, allows a better view of the electronic dash. Nicely bolstered front seats hold occupants securely, and the small changes, including the larger touchscreen, maintain the interior’s fresh and contemporary feel.

How does the 2021 Peugeot 3008 drive?

Our drive of all the new variants coincided with one of the worst weather events the state had seen, so self-preservation was the order of the day. Our drive loop was modified on the run to keep ahead of any potential flooding.

Peugeot’s long regarded aptitude for soaking up the worst sections of roads remains and we particularly liked the suppleness of the Allure and GT riding on 18-inch alloys. The small steering wheel accentuates the direct feel and the package retains its balance and poise through the bends.

With rain teeming down, caution was the order of the day rather than exploring the upper limits of engine performance, and it was hard to pick up the power differences between the petrol engines. Both deliver maximum torque at low rpm and feel punchy off the line. It’s the same for the diesel, and performance levels of all three are on par with the class leaders.

Is the 2021 Peugeot 3008 a good car?

Peugeot’s savvy styling should make the 2021 Peugeot 3008 a standout in the segment, yet the brand remains invisible in many respects. When you add the on-road costs and metallic/premium paint, the line-up starts knocking on the door of premium brands and AWD versions of the mainstream competition. Stradling mid-size and premium mid-size SUV segments keeps an otherwise effective package in no-man’s land.

Pros: Updates maintain freshness
Cons: Entry price close to top-spec rivals