Finally, the Peugeot 3008 facelifted version is here, and the significant changes will be the inheritance of the 3-claw tail-light and claw-like headlight design which is now standard across the Peugeot's range of models. Though personally the boomerang shape tail-light is not a favourable choice, and a subtle simpler design could be better here. This round, the 3008 has a newly tweaked 1.6-litre THP engine, with increase horsepower to 165hp and torque of 240Nm. The turbo engine is very willing to rev above 6000rpm, making it an enjoyable family SUV.
Safety is always on top of the list for all European-designed car, and the 3008 is no exception, with 5-star NCAP rating, equipped with 6-airbag, ESP, ABS, EBD, EBA, ASR, DSC, Hill Start Assist, rear view reverse camera, auto headlight, auto wiper, front and rear fog lights, follow-me-home light and dynamic directional bi-Xenon headlights. What else you want? However, the recent release ASEAN NCAP Phase III result only shown the Peugeot 208 scoring a 4-star instead of the NCAP 5-star, now this make one wonder why? Could be any of the following reasons:-
- ASEAN NCAP test is more stringent that Euro NCAP? Doubt?
- CKD kit of Peugeot here might have a different safety standard, thus allowing a more competitive price?
Peugeot build quality is always good, except for its Asean-only 408 which is not as good. The 3008 looks neat and technological advance especially with the HUD (Head-Up-Display), providing an ease of view of the speed and cruise control info. This translucent piece of plastic is innovative, and the projection is height adjustable to fit all driver viewing angle. Those that find this piece of display redundant and disturbing, could switch off easily and it lower itself into the dash. The navigation which is licensed from Nokia has a plain map. Timely map update is important and hope this is a free service from the service center.
The boot of the 3008 could be the most innovative in the segment. The main door opens like hatch, moving up, and the second door opens door, which the sales claimed this could sustain at least 100kg load on it, making it a temporal seat. The interior boot cover maintains as a multi-level adjustable board, which could be move up or down to provide a flatten space. The spare wheel is full size with matching alloy rim!
17" two-tone wheel design is nice, fitted with Michelin Premacy HP. Naza should really educate their assembler to do thing correctly. The red dot that you find on the tire is a alignment mark for the tire valve, the yellow dot is the heavy spot of the tire, to indicate to the tech if he has a out of balance wheel assembly to counter balance the wheel and tire assembly. This photo clearly show the red dot is not aligned to the tire valve position. Even a Perodua would not miss this important fact during assembly. Looks like Naza only has the urge in selling in bulk, but not to up to the quality yet, even after acquiring so many franchises in its automotive business.
8-way powered seat is a nice addition in this facelift model. However, the cabin remain pretty much unchanged, with a dated aircon control, radio unit and flimsy tiny rear aircon vent. Anyhow, this is a family-oriented car, thus simplicity is the core. Always love a bare steering wheel without any button and knob as I found those hinder a proper handling of the driver. Radio and cruise control stalk are mounted on the column instead, which is the smart. No blockage or hindrance for driver while keeping both hands on the wheel!
At RM154k, this is not the cheapest car in the same segment, one could explore others such as the CRV, Kuga, Sportage and Tucson, where all are similarly price competitively. 3008 and Ford Kuga are the only units with fuel efficient 1.6-litre turbo engine, and both drive really good. The low rev torque available really make a different. The 3008 soaks all undulated road condition, providing a very comfortable ride.
