High-Performance Sports Utility Vehicle Sporting the Peugeot Brand
Cruising the Black Forest: Peugeot's Electric SUVs Take Center Stage
Driving through Germany's enchanting Black Forest in an electric vehicle? Sign us up! We recently got behind the wheel of Peugeot's latest electric offerings, the 3008 and 5008, and let me tell you, it's an experience like no other. These bad boys share the same powertrain, yet they differ in size and comfort, making them unique and tailored to various preferences.
Let's tackle the basics. The powertrain of our test vehicles was the top-shelf 325 horsepower version, with a 213 horsepower engine connecting to the front axle and a 112 horsepower engine rocking the rear axle via cabling for all-wheel drive capabilities. This system is fueled by a whopping 75 kWh battery, boasting ranges of up to 485-526 kilometers for the 3008 and 465-500 kilometers for the 5008. Both models also present the options of front-wheel drive only (213 or 231 horsepower engines) and a long-range version with a 96.9 kWh battery.
Now, let's dig into the differences. The 3008 measures in at 454 cm in length, while the 5008 extends to 479 cm, with the shorter model also offering a narrower overall width of 1895 cm compared to the 5008's 1890 cm. Visually, the 3008 has a more sporty appearance, whereas the 5008 embraces the role as the "luxe SUV." The interiors of both vehicles convey a touch of modernity, boasting sports-inspired seats, a recycled-fabric dashboard that radiates a premium feel, a wraparound digital cockpit, and a central secondary display to manage the vehicle's functions.
The driving experience within these SUVs varies, particularly in the rear seats. The 3008 offers adequate space, albeit limited by the wide central tunnel, but taller passengers (over 1.80 meters) may scrape their heads on the roof. Conversely, the 5008 improves the situation, thanks to its less streamlined cabin design.
As for fuel consumption, we've tested these babies in lead-footed and feather-light driving styles. On a 47-kilometer route with a playful nature, the 5008 gobbled down an average of 29.1 kWh (vs a homologation of 18.8 kWh). However, adopting a more conservative 74-kilometer route with a 3008, we managed to achieve an average of 11.9 kWh (vs a homologation of 17.9 kWh).
Long story short, these Peugeot electric SUVs put on a show, even if the weight (2,262 kg for the 3008 and 2,331 kg for the 5008) tries to weigh things down. The adaptable engine, along with the ability to regulate the engine brake on three levels via the fancy "paddles" behind the steering wheel, ensures a smooth and engaging ride. Suspensions absorb the roughness like champs, and the roadholding is impressive—surprisingly sporty for these SUVs' appearance.
And the icing on the cake? Practicality is guaranteed by the spacious cargo capacity and the ability to fold the rear seats. Last but not least, these French beauties boast competitive prices, with the entry-level electric model with two-wheel drive starting at a friendly 43,730 euros (with promotions slashing that price to 36,730 euros).
Strap on your seatbelts and prepare for the ride of your life! Embrace the madness, and let Peugeot whisk you away on an electric adventure.
The average fuel consumption of the Peugeot 3008 and 5008 electric SUVs in a playful driving style is relatively high, with the 5008 consuming an average of 29.1 kWh, while a more conservative drive with the 3008 resulted in an average of 11.9 kWh.
Modern technology integrates seamlessly into these Peugeot electric SUVs, enhancing the lifestyle experience with sports-inspired seats, a premium-feeling recycled-fabric dashboard, and a central display for easy vehicle control.
