Already one of the fresher faces in the SUV identity parade, the Peugeot 3008 five-seater, high-riding family car originally introduced many of the distinctive features seen in Peugeot’s latest models when launched – but the grille and lights inherited a style closer to the previous generation.
2020’s facelift gives the three-year-old Peugeot 3008 a borderless grille, front model badge harking back to classic Peugeot designs, and of course, the striking ‘fang’ like signature daytime running lights introduced on the 508 and now present across the range.
As innovators of the ‘family look’, Peugeot’s skill in ensuring every model in the range is instantly recognisable as coming from the same manufacturer is undeniable, but the restyled nose does seem to rob the 3008 of the square-set ruggedness it had at launch.
As well as the complex, three-dimensional effect of the grille, the 3008 gains some whiskers below the headlights to reduce the flat, relatively featureless mass of bumper.
Front foglights have gone, replaced by reduced-output low beam LEDs activated with the rear fog light, and a large gloss-black scoop features to add further interest.
New technology in the 3008 for 2020
Most of the 3008’s advanced tech remains unchanged, but the versatile dashboard – Peugeot’s i-Cockpit with dynamic dials and instruments – has been upgraded to a 12.3-inch LCD with greater contrast and darker blacks. The central 10.0-inch infotainment screen retains Peugeot’s distinctive piano buttons, with a dedicated mode selector for petrol and diesel versions and a ‘hybrid’ shortcut for the two plug-in hybrid variants.
As before, there are two levels of adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and parking assistance on offer, and Peugeot’s innovative night vision system that makes excellent use of the dynamic dashboard.
New colours and trims
Marking the facelift’s arrival are two new colours, Celebes Blue and Vertigo Blue. Fresh new interior materials and finishes, such as red Nappa leather and ‘dark lime’ wood for GT models, are also available. However, Peugeot hasn’t always offered a full range of interior materials and colours for UK specification models, so we’ll look at the facelifted 3008’s options in more detail when UK prices are announced and specification confirmed.
2020 3008 – engines
Top of the range for 2020, the plug-in hybrid models feature either 225hp or 300hp combinations of motor, traditional engine and 13.2kWh battery pack, plus four wheel drive capability in the 300hp Hybrid 4, and emissions of 29g/km or 30g/km CO2 respectively.
The non-electrified lineup includes two petrol options: the excellent 1.2-litre PureTech 130 three cylinder in manual or auto forms, and the 1.6-litre 180hp four cylinder with automatic only.
Long-distance drivers wishing to stick with diesel can opt for the 1.5-litre BlueHDI 130hp, with eight-speed automatic.
Peugeot were ahead of the curve for RDE2 and WLTP emissions, so the engine range is fundamentally as before, but we’ll see if there are any differences in performance when the new model arrives later this year and we can drive it ourselves.
Trim levels and buying
Peugeot has separated the 3008 into Active, Allure and GT-Line models with packs for extra equipment:
>> Active 17-inch aluminium wheels, Visibility Pack, key;ess start, dual zone air conditioning, Rear parking assistance, digital radio (DAB)
>> Active Pack add mirror screen (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto), electrically folding mirrors, Front parking aid and VisioPark 1
>> Allure 18-inch alloy wheels, tinted windows, Safety Plus package, navigation with 10.0-inch display, PET fabric upholstery
>> Allure Pack adds keyless access and start, roof rack, passenger seat reclining, Ambient lighting pack and textile decorations
>> GT specific 18-inch aluminium rims, Black Diamond roof, Assist Plus drive pack, Full LED headlamps, PET-Alcantara upholstery
>> GT Pack adds 19-inch alloy wheels, hands-free tailgate, City 2 Pack, Focal HiFi, Massaging electric seats
With the 3008’s facelift, Peugeot is also introducing a stronger push into online sales. This will vary by country, so we’re looking forward to seeing what will be on offer in the UK. Peugeot already make it very easy to configure and price cars online, with monthly figures for options and a very comprehensive configurator.
What this means for you
Although there are cosmetic changes and improvements, there are no major technical changes and you could save thousands if you don’t mind having the older style of front on a high-spec model. After all, the 3008 is hardly an old or dated design.
On the other hand, if you want the absolute latest model when you take delivery of a new car – hold off until UK prices are announced. In this case we think it’s worth looking for savings on the current model – it’s already a high-tech, modern and good looking car, and this update is focused on aligning the range, not improving any shortcomings of the 3008.
Essentially – haggle hard, and look for the best offers on cars in stock, cancelled orders and unusual specifications. Peugeot’s excellent on-line sales model doesn’t offer much wiggle room, so this is absolutely worth a socially-distanced trip to the dealer for.
Further reading:
>> We rate the best hybrid SUVs for 2020
>> Which are the best SUVs on sale in the UK?
>> Group test: Peugeot 3008 vs Skoda Karoq, Honda CR-V & Hyundai Tucson
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