MOTORING REVIEW: Peugeot’s 5008 is family-friendly 7-seater SUV

THE third generation of the Peugeot 5008, the largest SUV in the company’s line-up, introduced here last February, is available in hybrid or all-electric versions, with both starting at €50,995.

This sizeable SUV appeals to expanding families with its robust styling, seven-seat practicality, ample boot space, numerous high-end safety features, and a choice of powertrains. However, most 5008 buyers this year have opted for the mild hybrid. My review model was the E-5008 electric version.

The front showcases a robust SUV design with a high bonnet, frameless grille, and Peugeot’s lion’s claw effect LED daytime running lights (also in the rear). The side highlights the 2.9m wheelbase, indicating plenty of interior space and comfort. The top GT version features Pixel LED headlights, gloss black pillars and side mouldings, a black diamond roof, privacy glass, and the new Peugeot lion shield logo on the front wings.

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Peugeot cars are known for their beautiful interiors, and this is no exception, with excellent fit and finish. However, I suspect that the grey tweed-like material on many surfaces may not withstand the wear and tear from children with sticky fingers.

My driver’s seat only had manual adjustments. Second-row seats can slide forward and back and recline as well. Access to the third row is easy, though they are better suited to children or smaller adults. Legroom here can be limited if the second-row seats are moved further back. Alternatively, you can slide the middle seats forward to create more legroom for those in the third row.

Storage options include a hidden compartment on the left side of the central console, large front door bins, and a deep space beneath the twin-door front armrest. There are three USB-C ports throughout the cabin and a wireless phone charging pad.

The stunning Panoramic i-Cockpit on the dashboard features a 21-inch curved display combining the driver’s instrument panel with a central touchscreen for the i-Connect infotainment system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and 3D navigation. You can also access key features via the conveniently located physical i-Toggle shortcut buttons below the screen. The flat section of the central console is divided into two levels with different switches.

Peugeot’s i-Cockpit includes a small steering wheel. Newcomers to the brand may need some time to get used to this compact wheel, but it gives the car a sporty feel and allows quicker reactions if needed. Unlike in some other Peugeots, I had a clear view of my speed on the instrument display after adjusting the wheel height to my 5ft 4in stature. Scroll through the buttons here to customise the instrument cluster to your preferences.

The transmission selector is located on the dashboard beside the engine start/stop button and includes a B mode. Regenerative paddles offer three levels of energy recovery.

The second row features a flat floor, a middle seat back armrest with two cupholders, its own climate control, and two ISOFIX anchors (one of the three previously available has been removed), as well as built-in sunblinds in the rear doors.

Boot capacity stands at 348 litres with all seats in use, expanding to 916 litres with the third row folded, and a generous 2,232 litres with both the second and third rows folded flat. When all seven seats are in use, cables and the parcel shelf can be stored beneath the adjustable boot floor. There is only enough space for a tyre repair kit.

Electric options include a 210bhp 73kWh 2WD version with up to 502 km WLTP range, a 230bhp version with a 96kWh battery offering 668 km, and a forthcoming AWD Dual Motor version with 320bhp and up to 500 km range. The 210bhp model claims an electricity consumption of around 17.7kWh/100km, peak torque of 437Nm, and a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 9.7 seconds. There is also a Mild Hybrid variant producing 136hp.

On the road, visibility is enhanced by the tall, wide windscreen. The vehicle was very quiet and refined, with a smooth ride, though it can feel a bit firm over rough surfaces. The extensive blue ambient lighting, linked to the Drive Mode, was less appealing to me during night driving.

DC fast charging from 20pc to 80pc takes approximately half an hour. During charging, the screen in my car showed 202km of charge equalled 52pc of the full charge.

Trim levels are Allure and GT. My GT trim featured a power tailgate, heated front seats and steering wheel, an excellent 360-degree camera, front and rear sensors, small blind spot monitors, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The new Peugeot 5008 received a four-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, which included the E-5008 electric variant. It scored 80pc for adult occupant protection, 85pc for child occupant protection, 79pc for vulnerable road user safety, and 62pc for safety assist.

In summary, the 5008 is among the top seven-seater family cars available.

Prices are from €50,995; my GT version from €54,995.