Carshop First Drives: Peugeot 3008 Allure 1.6 THP

Accolades. The Peugoet 3008 is no stranger to them having qualified for South Africa's Car of the Year in 2017 but obviously more importantly having won the 2017 European Car of the Year. It is therefore a very capable machine, and you can also chuck in a consummate cruiser and a surprisingly spirited driving tool too as we can now confirm having spent some time in it.

What is it?

The 3008 is a mid-sized SUV, the flagship of Peugeot's South African range and big brother to the 2008, a medium-compact SUV. It's a looker, even in appliance white thanks to some French stylistic additions such as the blackened roof, ornate lamp clusters both fore and aft, as well as silver and grey details. That grille is particularly bold and we love the clamshell bonnet and large alloys wheels.

Hop inside and the premium feel is overwhelming, with a tiny helm and a multimedia screen that dominates proceedings. There's plenty of cowhide and sporty looking cloth to be enjoyed here, warranted clues to an enjoyable driving experience. Here for your enjoyment is 121kW and 240Nm from a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, sent to the front wheels via a buttery smooth six speed auto which makes draining its 53 litre fuel tank far too easy. I'm not complaining.

Okay, let’s wrap this up (until the full review)

There remains a bad stigma around French cars in this country which we touched on last month with our review of the 208. Which is sad since a lot of potential buyers won't give the brilliant 3008 a look-in. For R459,900 it comes with a 4 year / 60 000km service plan for your peace of mind, and if that emboldens you to Peugeot ownership then you'll not just have a bargain on your hands, you'll have a very complete luxury vehicle that's a great amount of fun to drive. And it doesn't get much better than that. Check back next week for our full report.

Peugeot 3008 Allure 1.6 THP Quick Specs: