Viva la FRANCE!
Carting junior golfers around to training and tournaments can be quite cumbersome for the parentals since many hours are spent on the road or – due to strict COVID-19 regulations – next to the greens in the car. Anton Willemse talks vehicle choice for “golf-mommies” after spending time with the Peugeot 3008, which is certainly a far cry from a typical “mom’s taxi”.
During a discussion with a fellow automotive journalist regarding less well-known brands, like Peugeot, we both realised that in SA there are only a handful of brands consistently boasting impressive retail numbers. This often leads to people forgetting about the outlier brands, which, for an impressive brand like Peugeot, is quite sad since their product offers excellent quality at reasonable prices and head-turning styling. One such product is their super sexy 3008 crossover. 
The 3008 has enjoyed great success globally, with around 800 000 vehicles produced since its launch in 2016 and scooping the coveted New Car of the Year award in 2017. Peugeot designers are certainly not shy when it comes to functional aesthetics – everything but. Noticing the facelift on the roads and then, finally, in our drive left me wanting to get in and explore. The first thing that popped in my head was: “Wow, this thing looks awesome, but how will it compare in a tough segment?”
The striking front end is indistinguishable from the previous shape. The new styling is truly a step up. The massive aggressive grille which flows into the headlights makes a statement, reminding us that this is not just another Mom’s taxi. The already striking front end is further emphasised with hook-shaped daylight running lights. 
At the bottom of the bonnet, we have the model number to further distinguish it from the rest of the line-up. This futuristic front-end styling, coupled with a side profile with some added chrome elements to give it an elevated premium feel, certainly sets it apart from the competition. And bringing sexy back in the rear end is a nice black bar connecting the LED tail lights, which blend well with the dark roof lining. When you hop in, it gives you a space-age feeling. The new I-Cockpit provides everything from navigation to your average information such as vehicle economy, a feature standard across the range.
The Peugeot feels extremely tech advanced with the mentioned I-Cockpit and the 10-inch infotainment system which features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Coupled with a 515-watt FOCAL high-end sound system, it gives a sound quality that would keep the most discerning of passengers (that, of course, would be me as a 20-year old and my 14-year old sister) happy. Speaking of being happy – as a 1.9m tall bloke, I am always worried about space, but no need to fear in this case.
Whether as a driver or passenger, this cabin is truly a nice place to in. The 3008 also has 360 camera view, making parking much easier than expected considering the massive blind spot and tiny rear window. This brings me to the debate in terms of functionality versus design. I am quite practical, so I always favour a less-is-more design approach. For me, the interior is a good example of a pretty façade not hiding a few annoying things (similar to some girls I have dated, come to think of it!). 
My biggest complaint would be the controls for the infotainment system. See, everything is controlled through the infotainment system, even the air conditioning. That means that you must navigate a mess of menus and sub-menus, and even something as simple as syncing the air-conditioning becomes a bit of a task when driving. When driving on the Highway, I could not figure out the cruise control – this was because the lever controlling the system is hidden behind the steering wheel, and thus you have no idea what you’re doing with regards to the cruise control. On the other hand, my folks loved it and (surprisingly, considering their… let’s say seniority) got the hang of it quickly. This, of course, now means that whenever they claim to be “technologically challenged” again when installing a new TV or computer, I will simply remind them of their success in the Peugeot! As for performance? The Peugeot certainly shines here!
While driving it, you never feel like driving an SUV, but rather a hot hatch. My friends commented about it being a yummy mummy’s car rather than mom’s taxi, and I have to agree! My father even remarked that it feels like his first car, a golf CTI. This is due to the GT line’s 121kW of power and 240Nm of torque. The car does have a sporty feel and is fun to commute in. The six-speed automatic gearbox is also commendable as it shifts smoothly and never felt like it was searching for a gear. Peugeot claims 8 litres/100 km in terms of fuel consumption, but I struggled to keep it under 10 litres/100 km. was a bit worrying. I got in my time with the car about 10L per 100km with mostly town driving, but So, would I want my folks to get this (either for themselves or even for me)? Well, it does have great loading capacity for my gear, my friends and whatever else we need. It is undoubtedly a pleasure to drive and makes you look good (yes, my date enjoyed it again – a different one, though!). It is comfortable, luxurious and even a bit sporty, making even my mom look cool!. The interior is lovely and filled with helpful tech, albeit a bit confusing on the fly. Certainly, a good option when you’re looking for a small high-end SUV.
What’s the price tag?
- PEUGEOT 3008 Active: R 514 900
- PEUGEOT 3008 Allure: R 574 900
- PEUGEOT 3008 GT R: 644 900
