Peugeot 3008 1.6 HDi Allure 112 with Grip Control

Peugeot's 3008 is one of the most successful C-segment crossover cars on the market, with good reason. A supremely comfortable driving position, a stylish interior and good engines give buyers a lot of reasons to choose it. As a two-wheel-drive model it's not normally cut out for slippery winter conditions, but an option called Grip Control looks to change that.

In the wake of several harsh British winters that proved too much for most two-wheel-drive cars, it's more important than ever, especially for families with young children, to have a vehicle that can cope with snow and ice. Peugeot's Grip Control system electronically controls the engine's torque delivery to the front wheels, sending up to 100 per cent of the power to the wheel with the most grip. It means that the car makes the absolute most of any grip that's available.

It can handle muddy tracks, icy roads and snow much more effectively than a 3008 without the system, shuffling power around rapidly in response to changing grip levels, wasting as little of the engine's effort as possible. Forward momentum is maintained where it otherwise might be lost to wheelspin. It's a versatile option too, being able to be fitted to any of the available petrol or diesel engines.

Here it's mated to a 110bhp 1.6-litre diesel and a mid-range specification. The engine is smooth, quiet and relaxed around town and using a light throttle, but it lacks outright punch on the open road. There is a 2.0-litre diesel option for buyers who want a larger hit of torque. Whichever model is specified, the Grip Control functionality is selected via a dial on the centre console, showing ice/snow, mud and sand modes.

Riding on relatively small wheels and tall, chunky tyres as standard due to Grip Control, the 3008 rides very well over the majority of bumps. Its key controls like the pedals and gear stick are placed perfectly so that the driver is completely comfortable, but the heavily sloping centre console makes it difficult to reach its uppermost switches. The quality of materials is decent, but on style alone the cabin feels surprisingly premium.

Our verdict on the Peugeot 3008 1.6 HDi Allure 112 with Grip Control

In this combination of engine and trim, the 3008 makes a lot of sense as an urban car with its high seating position and relaxing nature. Its Grip Control function means that it will handle the worst of the winter weather much more capably than it would without it, but be wary of the glass roof, which can amplify the sound of heavy rain and hail to unpleasant levels.

Costs

The 3008 offers a lot of versatility for its asking price, although some comparisons can be drawn that make it look expensive. A sensible engine range helps reduce costs, with the 2.0-litre 150bhp diesel hard to beat as a halfway house between power and economy. Servicing costs should easily fall within family budgets although specification may need to be considered carefully to ensure decent residual values.

Space and practicality

A generous feeling of space for all occupants is boosted by the full-length glass roof on the Allure model. Storage is impressive too, in particular the huge bin located between the front seats. It makes up for a slightly restricted glovebox, but the single side hinge makes it difficult to access from the driver's seat. The adjustable boot floor adds volume to the boot and although the load level is high, the boot is generously proportioned and adaptable.

Controls and display

A compact head-up display system projects speed and, where specified, more in-depth information as well. Although it sounds gimmicky, it soon leaves drivers wondering how they managed without it, in terms of the speed read-out at least. The adjustable driving position is excellent, with the gear lever located in a raised position within reach. The electronic parking brake can be a little noisy, but the smartly styled row of metal-rimmed switches is a neat touch.

Comfort

An outstandingly comfortable vehicle in any company, not just its crossover rivals, the 3008 offers supportive and well-shaped seats plus a raft of standard equipment and optional extras to make life as pleasant for the occupants as possible. Refined at speed in terms of wind and road noise and with a supple ride, the 3008 dispatches long journeys with no trouble, leaving the driver and passengers relaxed.

Car security

Allure and Sportium models benefit from a Thatcham category one approved alarm and immobiliser system. Lots of storage space means plenty of opportunities to keep valuables out of sight and, naturally, remote central locking is standard on all models.

Car safety

The projected distance information on the head-up display is an interesting feature. Although it's not capable of limiting the car's distance it will flash warnings at a preset limit through the heads-up display. Elsewhere, more traditional safety equipment includes six airbags and an energy distributing body design, while directional headlamps also contribute to making the 3008 a reassuring choice for families.

Driver appeal

The 3008 is remarkable comfortable and relaxing to pilot, and thanks to its commanding view of the road courtesy of the raised driving position, large mirrors and huge windscreen, it inspires confidence as well. The 1.6-litre 110bhp diesel engine should be purchased for its smoothness and refinement rather than its power. The steering and brakes are responsive, making the driving experience pleasantly undemanding.

Family car appeal

The 3008 has all the flexibility, practicality and space that growing families might need. It will easily serve as family transport for five with room for luggage, prams and family paraphernalia. The driving position helps create a feeling of security but also offers rear occupants a good view, and sensible engine choices will help it to operate within family budgets.

First car appeal

The 3008 is more of a family vehicle than a first car. It offers more space and versatility than a regular 308 hatchback or estate, and the reality is that first time car buyers and younger drivers would probably find a regular hatchback more suitable.

Quality and image

Peugeot has raised its game in terms of designing cars that feel more expensive, and its models are more popular than ever with drivers and particularly families in the UK. Material quality is just fine for a car in 3008's price range with good quality leather where specified and tactile plastics. Build quality is generally high.

Accessibility

Thanks to the raised ride height, large body and good-size doors of the 3008 it's a very easy model to get in and out of, or to install or remove child seats from. The boot door is a horizontally split affair, with the upper portion opening upwards to offer partial access and the lower section lowering to offer complete access.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

The 3008 Allure model can be ordered with an impressive multimedia system with hard-drive storage and a USB connection. The control interface is a standard Peugeot affair, meaning it's attractive but sometimes small buttons on the centre console can be fiddly to use. A JBL stereo upgrade with more power can also be specified, but sound quality from the standard equipment is very good.

Colours and trim

A range of eight exterior colours is available for the 3008 range, mostly comprising whites, greys and blacks. Cloth seat trim is standard until high-grade cars, but leather upholstery is an option. Interior trim is neatly finished, particularly the metal-rimmed switch gear on the centre console.

Parking

Like a 308 but taller, the 3008 is no more difficult to manoeuvre or park than its conventional hatchback cousin. The high driving position and large, SUV style mirrors offer a good view of the surroundings and standard parking sensors on the top models model also help when reversing. Two-wheel drive means the turning circle remains unrestricted.

Spare wheel

Emergency tyre repair kit as standard with option of full size spare.

Range information

Petrol engine options - 1.6-litre (120bhp); 1.6-litre (150bhp). Diesel engine options - 1.6-litre (110bhp); 2.0-litre (150bhp); 2.0-litre (163bhp). Transmission options: five-speed manual gearbox, six-speed manual gearbox, six-speed EGC clutchless manual gearbox with a switchable fully auto mode, six-speed automatic gearbox. Trim levels: Active, Sport, Exclusive.

Alternative cars

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Citroen C4 Picasso Similar family friendly appeal but only front-wheel drive

Volkswagen Tiguan Excellent build quality and commanding driving position