in advance of most others. Just behind sits the elongated,
infinitely variable digital instrumentation that works in
conjunction with the central 8” touchscreen, controlling
the satnav, climate, Bluetooth, entertainment and onboard
readouts. The only physical controls are the row of brushed
aluminium piano keys, neat push buttons and rocker
transmission selector. Capitalising on the 5008’s perfectly
flat floor, in five passenger format, besides the seemingly
limitless head, shoulder and knee room, 823 litres of cargo
can still be loaded on board, expanding to 2,506 litres with
all but the front seats in use, with approximately 1,100 kg
towing maximum.
Beneath the neat, flat, full-width bonnet there are four
engines to choose from. Of the two petrol units, the 1.2 is
remarkably lively, while the 1.6 is slightly more refined.
Diesel buyers can select from the 1.5 or the 2-litre unit as
tested, mated to either manual or automatic transmissions.
Delivering 180 hp and 400 Nm of torque, the 8-speed
auto can be left to its own devices or sport mode can be
activated for a little extra zip. Depress the manual switch
and shifts can also be controlled using the paddle-activated
sequential although hard acceleration, especially in the
lower gears, does cause the engine to become noticeably
raucous.
With a 134 mph top speed, 0–62 mph comes up in an
unperturbed 9.2 seconds, while the indicated average fuel
consumption of 38.1 mpg or 450 miles or thereabouts per
56-litre refill is liveable.
Once behind the wheel, it takes little if any effort to adopt
the relaxed, nonchalant French manner that emanates from
the 5008. The electrically assisted steering is light, power
only being applied when required. All-round visibility is
excellent, aided by the car’s onboard cameras.
The 11.3-metre turning circle and 2.9 turns lock-to-lock
mean that, for what is a large car, negotiating small spaces
is as easy as driving on the open road. Given the 5008’s
size, the ride, at times, can undulate over uneven surfaces,
though the chassis and suspension make an admirable job
of purging severe external disruptions before they find their
way into the cabin.
An interesting aspect of the 5008 is the marginal increase
in weight over the almost identical but fractionally smaller
- While the smaller sibling may be considered slightly
more nimble, it’s the additional mass that works to the
5008’s advantage. This SUV sets up better for bends and
has a more refined high-speed feel and cornering attitude.
Granted, you can feel the size, but in the case of the 5008
it works to the Peugeot’s advantage, defining this most
practical of daily transportation as an accomplished,
long-distance cruiser that, combined with the larger diesel
engine, results in one of the more relaxing cars currently
available.
Prices start at £26,759 for the 1.2 petrol Active spec,
£33,399 for the Allure 2-litre diesel as tested, while the
range-topping GT diesel will cost you £38,529.
Interior is spacious,
comfortable and based
around Peugeot’s unique
iCockpit.Smart 18” alloys and
225/55 rubber add
to the looks and ride
quality.The digital instruments
give the driver six
choices of displays.