Road tested by Hugh Maguire

So what is it exactly? Well put simply it is a bit of a mix of all three. It's compact at just 4.36m, yet has the roominess of a 5-seat MPV with the higher driving position of an MPV. So I took the all- new 3008 SX for a drive to see just what is on offer.

First Impressions
The styling of the new 3008 is without doubt attractive. The car has a terrific looking front end with an aggressive and purposeful looking profile. Equally the rear of the car is distinctive with some nice detail design touches including a handy split rear tailgate.
As cars of this type go it is definitely more attractive than many of its rivals. A good choice of attractive colours is available which further enhance the good design.

Behind the wheel
The interior of the new 3008 is certainly individual, and again has some rather nice design touches. The dashboard is clearly and logically laid out with two large central instruments in between which sits the digital on board computer. The overall effect is definitely good creating a bit of style.
You do notice that the car sits slightly higher on the road than a conventional estate and the higher driving position as a result offers a commanding view of the road ahead. Standard equipment on the new 3008 SX model tested is very good indeed, obviously it has all the usual electric windows and so on, but of more interest are features such as ABS with EBD, ESP driver, passenger front, side and curtain airbags, front and rear anti-trap windows, an MP3 compatible CD changer, climate control, alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic electronic park brake, hill assist, remote audio controls, a number of 12 volt sockets and numerous cup holders and handy storage areas and a split rear tailgate.

Performance
Power is supplied by the PSA Group 1.6 Hdi 110 bhp turbo diesel engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or an a auto eco box.
Generally performance is pretty good with bags of torque, though I did feel that when overtaking from low speeds on some country roads where you need a swift overtaking it could do with a bit more power in 3rd. That said once moving along it really performs nicely.
Of more interest is the refinement and frugality of this engine. It is a smooth and willing diesel unit and proves truly economical burning just 6.1 litres of diesel per 100km. Furthermore its low 137g/km emissions result in a road tax of just €156.

Road Behaviour
he ride and handling is pretty good. Point the 3008 at a bend and it will corner with confidence and plenty of grip in all conditions.
The ride is also very good, the excellent suspension set-up allows the road imperfections to be soaked up with ease making for very pleasant progress over poor roads.
Noise levels are generally commendably low and it all feels well put together.
The accommodation is excellent. The 3008 will seat 5 adults in comfort (full three point belts provided for all occupants). The load area has a cleverly designed floor with three adjustable positions. The load area is 1,030mm wide and can hold a sizeable 512 litres of cargo or 1,604 litres with the rear seats folded to make a flat floor.

Verdict
The new 3008 is probably Peugeot's best car yet. It is superbly built, feels top quality with high quality materials in evidence throughout and is very well equipped.
In short it delivers in all areas and is a truly fine car offering economical family motoring in an attractive bodystyle with a flexible interior including that very handy split folding rear tailgate.
Pricing is equally impressive with the entry level 3008 SE costing just €24,900 while the SX tested costs €26,545, the top of the range SV will set you back €29,495. Take my word for it this car should be a very strong contender for the Semperit Irish Car Of The Year Awards as judged by myself and my colleagues in the Irish Motoring Writers Association!