Peugeot 5008 GT-Line Quick Review

Peugeot is going through a renaissance at the moment, with a refreshed line-up that continues to impress. The 5008 large seven-seat SUV is closely related to the mid-size 3008, keeps the same striking design cues, but ups the practicality.

Tell me about this car:

The Peugeot 5008 is both fun to drive, impressive to look at and practical. As a style-driving offering – particularly on the inside – the 5008 certainly stands out in the crowded SUV market. We take a look at the $46,990 mid-spec GT-Line variant to investigate whether this French family-hauler is the right fit for you and your tribe.

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Strengths

• Style: The 5008 is dripping with design charisma, from the fresh face front and rear, to the wonderful and textural interior it shares with the 3008. Picking the Peugeot for your family is as much a style statement as it is a practical decision. You don’t sacrifice useability, despite the edgy design features like the Lamborghini-esque switches on the dash, and compact steering wheel and high-mounted instrument cluster.
• Luggage room: If hauling cargo and people is your aim, the Peugeot has you covered. Even with the middle row slid to its most rearward position, there is 780 litres of space below the luggage cover (a Skoda Kodiaq only provides 630 litres in a similar configuration, for example). A powered tailgate is standard.
• Handling: Where the 5008 really shines is its handling and dynamic ability. Despite its size, the large SUV feels planted and chuckable in bends, and can easily put a smile on the dial of an enthusiastic driver.

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• Versatility: This is an SUV for both around town and long country drives. The steering is light and friendly for city driving, while the seats are well trimmed and comfortable for long trips (there are even shade blinds built into the rear doors to keep the sun of your youngling’s faces). A ‘grip control’ system is a $200 option for the GT-Line, offering snow, mud, sand and ‘ESP off’ modes, as well as hill-descent control for when the bitumen disappears.
• Value: The petrol GT-Line 5008 we tested has a sticker price of $46,990, but offers a premium level of feel and equipment. The base Allure model is $4000 cheaper for those looking to get the most from their pennies. The 5008 is a serious rival to other large European SUVs, for a bargain price.
• Warranty: Peugeot is now offering a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty on all models, including the 5008.

Weaknesses

• Firm ride: While dynamically impressive, the trade-off with the 5008 is a ride which is firmer than its rivals, and transmits road imperfections through to the cabin. The ride is also slightly busy on some of Australia’s craggier roads.
• Tyre roar: The calming cabin design is undone by persistent tyre noise on coarse surfaces from the 19-inch tyre and rim package.

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• Engine: While there is nothing wrong with the 1.6-litre 121kW/240Nm turbo petrol engine in the 5008, it is ageing and down on power compared to its strongest competitors the Mazda CX-9 and Skoda Kodiaq. However, it remains torquey, smooth and driveable, despite being outgunned in pure output terms.
• Front seats hamper rear legroom: For the most part the 5008 is a capable people mover, however, the hard-backed front seats eat into rear legroom for second-row passengers. Adults over six-foot will have to move their legs around the seats to sit comfortably.

Any rivals I should consider?

Mazda CX-9 Sport, Skoda Kodiaq, Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Pathfinder, Citroen Grand C4 Picasso