COTY worthy of its laurels

The Peugeot 3008 competes in a growing and competitive area of the Irish market - the crossover segment. Peugeot claims the new car is positioned between several existing vehicles, the SUV, MPV and hatchback. So what is it exactly? Well, put simply it is a bit of a mix of all three. It is compact at just 4.36m, but has the roominess of a five-seat MPV and the higher driving position. There are three models, the SE, SX and the SV, powered by a 1.6 Hdi diesel. The styling of the new 3008 is attractive. It has a terrific front end with an aggressive and purposeful profile. Equally, the rear is distinctive with some nice detail design touches including a handy split rear tailgate. As cars of this type go it is definitely more attractive than many of its rivals. A good choice of attractive colours is available which further enhance the good design. The interior of the new 3008 is individual, and again has some nice design touches. The dashboard is clearly and logically laid out with two large central instruments in between which sits the digital read-out for the on-board computer. The overall effect is definitely good at creating a bit of style. You notice that the car sits slightly higher than a conventional estate and the higher driving position as a result offers a commanding view of the road ahead. Standard equipment on the new 3008 SX model tested is good; it has all the usual electric windows and so on, but of more interest are features such as ABS with EBD, ESP, driver, passenger front, side and curtain airbags, front and rear anti-trap windows, an MP3 compatible CD-changer, climate control, alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic electronic park brake, hill assist, remote audio controls, a number of 12-volt sockets and numerous cup holders and handy storage areas and a split rear tailgate. Performance Power is supplied by the PSA Group 1.6 Hdi 110bhp turbo diesel mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or an auto eco-box. Generally performance is good, with bags of torque, though when overtaking from low speeds on some country roads where you need a swift manoeuvre it could do with a bit more go in third. That said, once moving along it performs nicely. Of more interest is the refinement and frugality of this engine. It is a smooth and willing diesel and proves truly economical, burning just 6.1 litres of fuel per 100km. Its low 137g/km emissions result in a road tax of just €156. The ride and handling are good. Point the 3008 at a bend and it will corner with confidence and plenty of grip in all conditions. The ride is also good; the excellent suspension set-up allows road imperfections to be soaked up with ease, making for pleasant progress over poor roads. Noise levels are generally commendably low and it all feels well put together. The accommodation is excellent. The 3008 will seat five adults in comfort (full three-point belts are provided for all occupants). The load area has a cleverly designed floor with three adjustable positions. The load area is 1,030mm wide and can hold a sizeable 512 litres of cargo or 1,604 litres with the rear seats folded to make a flat floor. Verdict. The new 3008 is probably Peugeot's best car yet. It is superbly built, feels top quality with high quality materials in evidence throughout and is well equipped. In short it delivers in all areas and is a truly fine car, offering economical family motoring in an attractive body style with a flexible interior including that handy split folding rear tailgate. Pricing is equally impressive; the entry level 3008 SE costs just €24,900, while the SX tested costs €26,545. The top of the range SV will set you back €29,495. It is the Irish Car Of The Year for 2010.