Not just French flavor! Test drive the new Peugeot 3008, a mid-class SUV that combines driving performance and practicality

PEUGEOT 3008

Adopts a newly developed platform

Although it is an SUV, it has a coupe-like form and is not very tall.

The 3008 is a popular mid-class, practical SUV in Japan. A new version of this model, which has sold a total of 1.32 million units since its debut, has now arrived in Japan. Its biggest feature is that it uses a newly developed platform for the C&D segment called STLA-Medium, and although it is designed for BEVs, it is said to be compatible with multiple powertrains, including hybrids equipped with ICEs. With the future of BEVs still uncertain, this is a wise choice. A hybrid that combines a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with a motor will be introduced first in Japan, and a BEV is scheduled to appear within the year.

The hybrid combines a 6-speed DCT with a 48V motor producing 22 PS/51 Nm, and Stellantis calls it a mild hybrid, perhaps to distinguish it from a plug-in hybrid. However, since it also apparently runs on the motor at low speeds, it’s probably fair to call it a regular hybrid.

Futuristic design

The monitor seen from above the steering wheel is a whopping 21 inches. The transforming steering wheel is easy to operate, but the grip is quite thick.

The seats offer excellent support and allow you to find the best position. The rear seats can also comfortably accommodate three adults.

The exterior is very Peugeot-like, and has a very French car-like feel. The edgy details, which look as if they’ve been carved out of a large block with a chisel, and the daytime running lights, which are said to resemble lion’s claws, give it a unique character that sets it apart from German brands. The interior is similar, with the traditional i-Cockpit and the center console, which is made up of straight lines, giving it a futuristic feel.

Once you start driving, the first thing that strikes you is the high rigidity around the floor. As you would expect from a car designed for a BEV, the body is incredibly robust, further highlighting the supple suspension that is unique to Peugeot. It’s soft yet solid, and the overall feeling of “good stuff” is wonderful.

Strategic pricing is also attractive

The 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine produces 136 PS/230 Nm. The 22 PS drive motor also generates electricity.

The powertrain is torquey enough and easy to handle, but perhaps because it was a scorching hot day, the engine stalled for only a short time. Even so, the fuel economy gauge showed a figure in the mid-10km/L range even when driving mainly around town, so this can be considered the minimum line for the Japanese environment.

The starting price of 4.89 million yen is also very attractive, and it is likely to attract customers switching from Japanese cars.

REPORT / Gensuke NAGATA

PHOTO / Koichi SHINOHARA

MAGAZINE / GENROQ September 2025 issue

SPECIFICATIONS

Peugeot 3008 GT Hybrid

Body size: Length 4565mm, Width 1895mm, Height 1665mm

Wheelbase: 2730mm

Vehicle weight: 1620kg

Engine: Inline 3-cylinder DOHC

Total displacement: 1199cc

Maximum power: 100kW (136PS) / 5500rpm

Maximum torque: 230Nm (22.4kgm) / 1750rpm

Maximum motor power: 16kW (22PS) / 4264rpm

Maximum motor torque: 51Nm (5.2kgm) / 750-2499rpm

Transmission: 6-speed DCT

Drive system: FWD

Suspension type: Front MacPherson strut, rear torsion beam

Brakes: Front ventilated disc, rear disc

Tire size: Front and rear 225/55R19

Fuel consumption rate: 19.4km/L (WLTC)

Vehicle price: 5.4 million yen