Peugeot 5008 Sport HDi 110

Not content with its current corral of MPVs and SUVs, Peugeot is adding to the mix with the 5008, a bigger take on the successful 3008 crossover and an attempt to add some much-needed driving pleasure into the larger end of the MPV sector.

The ever-increasing demands of the car buying public have led to an inevitable blurring of the lines that define different car segments. The latest such vehicle from Peugeot is the 5008, a model that the French manufacturer has designed to combine the vehicle dynamics of a regular hatchback model with the practicality of an MPV.

Peugeot says that the 5008 earns its badge by being a family oriented machine, following on from previous Peugeot models such as the 504 and 505 Estate, both of which scored highly in terms of practicality. Masses of interior storage is a given and the full flexibility of the seating arrangement, including easy access to the third row, shows the amount of thought that has gone into its practical nature.

Two petrol engines are available; both 1.6-litres in capacity with either 120bhp or turbocharged 150bhp outputs. The more powerful of the two units boasts a six-speed rather than a five-speed gearbox. The three diesel units offer either 110bhp, 156bhp or 163bhp. The most powerful employs a six-speed automatic gearbox, the least powerful uses either a six-speed manual or six-speed electronically controlled manual while the 150bhp unit is available with a six-speed manual only.

The 5008 is also intended to offer a premium experience for passengers and the driver and, to that end, it features a number of options and standard equipment to enhance the experience. The full length panoramic glass sunroof allows a huge amount of light into the cabin, there is the option of screens mounted in the head rest and a head-up display unit for added safety.

Our verdict on the Peugeot 5008 Sport HDi 110

Although it is taking on a number of roles, the Peugeot 5008 does a remarkable job of meeting a long list of requirements. It is as pleasing to drive as many smaller hatchbacks despite its size and its spaciousness and quality are impressive. It matches all of its current rivals on practicality, but beats most of them for driving pleasure.

Costs

Priced between the 308 hatchback and estate models, the 5008 offers a lot of versatility for its asking price. 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 returns.

Space and practicality

A spacious body is aided by the light and airy feel provided by the impressive full length glass roof on the Exclusive model, yet even without the feature the 5008 offers plentiful leg and headroom for all occupants. Storage is impressive, in particular the under-floor storage in the Exclusive's passenger footwells and the huge bin located between the front seats. 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 heads-up display system projects speed and, where specified, distance to the preceding car information into the drivers field of vision. Although it sounds gimmicky, it soon leaves drivers wondering how they managed without it, in terms of the speed read-out at least. The tuneable driving position is excellent, with the precise gear lever located in a raised position within casual reach. Audio and cruise control switches on the steering column feel natural to use, unlike the automatic parking brake which can be a little clumsy. The fiddly audio controls are also less impressive, but the smartly styled row of metal-rimmed switches above is a neat touch.

Comfort

An inherently comfortable vehicle, the 5008 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 5008 fails to take its toll over longer journeys.

Car security

The Exclusive model benefits 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.

Car safety

A new device offering information on the gap to the car in front is an interesting addition, although it is not capable of limiting the distance it will flash warnings at a preset limit through the heads-up display. Elsewhere, more traditional safety equipment includes six-air bags and an energy distributing body design, while directional headlamps also contribute to making the 5008 a reassuring choice for families.

Driver appeal

The 5008's appeal lies in its commanding view of the road courtesy of the raised driving position, large mirrors and huge windscreen, rather than in its performance potential. The 2.0-litre 150bhp diesel unit offers useful low down torque, combining with well spaced gear ratios to offer a sedate cruising experience and strong in-gear acceleration for overtaking. The model holds the road well, boasting a stable platform without excessive body roll. The steering and brakes are suitably responsive making the driving experience pleasantly undemanding.

Family car appeal

The 5008 makes a fantastic car for families with the flexibility, practicality and space to grow with them. 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 and offers rear occupants a good view and sensible engine choices will help it to operate within family budgets.

First car appeal

More of a family vehicle, the 5008 offers more space and versatility than a regular 308 hatchback or estate. First time car buyers and younger drivers would probably find a regular hatchback more suitable, and Peugeot has no shortage of options available.

Quality and image

Peugeot has increased its reputation as a manufacturer of solid and dependable cars and its models are more popular than ever with drivers and particularly families in the UK. Material quality is acceptable for a car in 5008's price range with good quality leather where specified and pleasant to touch plastics.

Accessibility

Thanks to the tall body and large doors, the 5008 is a cinch to get into for all passengers. Getting into the usually-tricky third row of seats is made easy by a fold and tumble seat in the second row, leaving a large aperture to climb in.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

The 5008 Exclusive model boasts an impressive multimedia system with hard-drive storage, USB connection and, with the clear and concise sat-nav system screen, DVD playing ability. The control interface is a standard Peugeot affair, meaning small buttons on the centre console that 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 5008 range, some livelier than others. Two shades of black and a grey are available for the interior cloth, while black or grey leather options are also available as upgrades. Interior trim is neatly finished, particularly the metal-rimmed switch gear on the centre console.

Parking

The 5008 rides on the longer wheelbase version of the 308 platform, but due to its increased length it requires a little extra attention when parking. There is a large glass area to aid visibility, and although the extremities of the car are difficult to see the parking sensors work well.

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 (156bhp). 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.

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