Also as a diesel hybrid!
We are in the period between the unveiling of the new Peugeot 3008 and its market introduction. The new model relies heavily on its predecessor in terms of appearance, but with that you would almost forget the very first 3008. Of course we don’t do that.
For both the Peugeot 5008 and the Peugeot 3008, the first generations are almost forgotten. The first Peugeot 5008, unlike its successor, was a true midi MPV and to this day we don’t actually know what exactly the first 3008 was. Let’s stick to a real crossover, because the 3008 was a cross between an SUV and an MPV. The car borrowed its high ground clearance and ditto wheels and wheel arches from the SUV, and the sloping nose and enormous windshield from the MPV. When the curtain finally came down in 2009, the car was immediately identified as a Qashqai competitor on this site. Not surprising, because the Nissan was the pioneer of this segment and remains a 3008 rival to this day.
Split tailgate
Although the MPV-like look of the first 3008 certainly distinguishes it from later generations, it is mainly the remarkable appearance that we remember from the first Peugeot 3008. Its design was, to put it mildly, quite sensitive to taste. A somewhat coarse and of course large grille was given a place on a body full of curves, but also with strongly flattened wheel arches. The taillights also stood out with their three extensions, just like the tailgate. The tailgate? Yes, because the first 3008 had a real ‘split tailgate’. The lower part hinged downwards, just like a Range Rover or a BMW X5.
Toggle switches
Of course, the interior of the 3008 did not reach that level, but the true beauty of this car was inside. To this day, the dashboard of the Peugeot crossover still looks fresh, high-quality and even fairly modern, where it is striking that the first generation of Peugeot’s toggle switches has already appeared and the car has a lot of physical buttons compared to a newer Peugeot. Also nice: a high center tunnel, for a secure feeling and a gear lever that is directly within reach.
Usually a strange, remarkable and stubborn car is a good way to get a nice used car for little money. This could also apply to the 3008, but vigilance is required. After all, THP petrol engines do not have the best reputation, although there are plenty of positive stories online. The most special 3008 in terms of powertrain is without a doubt the Hybrid4, with which Peugeot was the first manufacturer to combine hybrid technology with a diesel engine. We think the best way to enjoy that version is to watch the first driving test with that car, because that is a lot less risky than purchasing such an extremely complex and obsolete diesel combination.
– Thanks for information from Autoweek.nl