Among the growing selection of mid-size SUVs in Australia, few manage to balance sophistication and individuality quite like the Peugeot 3008. With its elegant design, hybrid efficiency, and premium cabin materials, this French-made SUV continues to challenge more common rivals such as the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Volkswagen Tiguan.
The 2025 Peugeot 3008 builds upon its established reputation by introducing a new hybrid powertrain, a refined driving experience, and a long list of tech upgrades that make it more appealing for Australian families and urban professionals. Let’s explore what makes the 3008 stand out, how it drives, and whether its premium pricing matches its promises.
Exterior Design – Distinctively French and Bold
Peugeot has long been known for its flair in automotive design, and the 3008 continues that tradition. Its sculpted body lines, floating roof effect, and signature LED lighting create a look that feels premium and modern without being overly aggressive.
At the front, the frameless grille seamlessly merges into the headlights, giving it a futuristic and cohesive look. The LED “claw” lighting design adds a sharp personality that is instantly recognizable on Australian roads. Chrome accents around the windows, bold wheel arch cladding, and sleek alloy designs further enhance its visual presence.
From every angle, the Peugeot 3008 exudes a sense of sophistication that differentiates it from the more utilitarian styling of many mainstream SUVs. It’s an SUV designed for drivers who care about aesthetics as much as practicality.
Interior and Cabin Comfort
Step inside the Peugeot 3008, and you’re greeted by one of the most stylish and high-quality interiors in its class. The French automaker’s signature i-Cockpit design places a compact steering wheel below a high-mounted digital instrument display, creating a driver-focused environment that feels like a cockpit rather than a conventional cabin.
Premium Materials and Layout
Soft-touch materials, contrasting textures, and ambient LED lighting create a luxurious atmosphere. The dashboard flows elegantly into the centre console, with piano-style toggle switches for easy access to climate and media controls.
Even base models feel upmarket, while higher trims introduce Nappa leather upholstery, heated front seats, and panoramic sunroof options.
Comfort and Space
The 3008 provides generous seating for five adults, with excellent front-seat comfort and supportive bolstering. Rear passengers get decent legroom and headroom, though the centre seat is best for short trips.
The boot offers around 520 litres of luggage space, which expands to over 1,400 litres when the rear seats are folded flat. For most families, this will be ample for weekend trips, grocery runs, or even small camping adventures.
Technology and Connectivity
Peugeot has ensured the 3008 is well-equipped for the tech-savvy Australian driver.
- Digital Cockpit: The 12.3-inch digital driver display provides crisp graphics and multiple views.
- Infotainment: A 10-inch central touchscreen includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth streaming, and satellite navigation on upper trims.
- Sound System: Higher trims feature a premium Focal audio system for immersive listening.
- Wireless Connectivity: Wireless phone charging and multiple USB-C ports enhance convenience.
- Ambient Lighting: Customisable interior lighting adds to the 3008’s high-end atmosphere during night drives.
While some rivals might offer slightly more intuitive infotainment systems, the Peugeot 3008 impresses with its blend of design and digital sophistication.
Powertrain – Introducing Hybrid Efficiency
The headline feature for 2025 is the introduction of the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid, which pairs a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a small electric motor and a 48-volt battery system.
This mild-hybrid setup delivers approximately 100 kW of power and 230 Nm of torque, offering smoother acceleration and improved fuel economy over the previous pure-petrol versions. The electric motor assists during take-off and low-speed driving, reducing reliance on the petrol engine and lowering emissions.
Fuel Economy
Official consumption figures hover around 4.9 L/100 km, though real-world driving typically returns between 6 L–7 L/100 km depending on traffic and terrain. For Australian buyers who split time between city and highway driving, the 3008 hybrid provides meaningful savings at the pump without requiring plug-in charging.
Transmission
Power is sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly, complementing the hybrid system’s quiet performance.
Driving Experience – Comfort and Refinement First
The Peugeot 3008 has never been about raw performance; instead, it prioritises comfort, refinement, and composure on Australian roads.
Ride Quality
Its suspension setup is tuned for everyday comfort, soaking up rough surfaces and potholes effortlessly. The cabin remains calm and quiet even on coarse-chip highways, making it an ideal companion for long family trips.
Handling and Steering
The small steering wheel takes some getting used to, but it enhances the sense of agility once familiar. The steering is light in urban environments and precise enough for confident cornering.
While not sporty like some competitors, the 3008 provides a balanced feel that leans toward comfort rather than performance – which suits the majority of SUV buyers perfectly.
Urban and Highway Performance
Around town, the hybrid assistance makes the 3008 feel lively at lower speeds, while highway cruising remains stable and effortless. Its compact dimensions make parking and city manoeuvres surprisingly easy for a mid-size SUV.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Peugeot takes safety seriously, and the 3008 is packed with advanced features to protect both occupants and pedestrians.
Standard Safety Features
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go Function
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Driver Attention Alert
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- 360-Degree Parking Cameras
The SUV has earned strong safety scores in crash testing, reflecting its solid build quality and technology suite.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Focus
As Australia moves toward greener motoring, Peugeot’s mild-hybrid system is a step in the right direction. Unlike plug-in hybrids, this setup doesn’t require external charging – it regenerates power through braking and deceleration.
This means less fuel consumption during city commutes, smoother restarts, and fewer emissions. Drivers benefit from lower running costs without the need for EV charging infrastructure, making the 3008 hybrid a practical and sustainable choice for eco-conscious Australian buyers.
Variants and Pricing in Australia
Peugeot Australia offers the 3008 in multiple variants, catering to different budgets and needs.
Typical trims include:
- Allure Hybrid: Entry-level but well-equipped with dual-zone climate control, LED headlights, and digital cockpit.
- GT Hybrid: Adds larger alloys, premium interior finishes, wireless charging, and advanced driver aids.
- GT Sport Hybrid: The top variant with Nappa leather seats, panoramic sunroof, and Focal sound system.
Pricing Overview
Depending on the variant and optional extras, Australian pricing ranges approximately between $52,000 and $68,000 drive-away. While that’s higher than some Japanese rivals, it aligns closely with premium European alternatives and reflects Peugeot’s upmarket positioning.
Ownership and Running Costs
The Peugeot 3008 comes with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, which is standard across the brand’s Australian lineup. This matches key rivals and demonstrates Peugeot’s confidence in build quality.
Servicing
Scheduled servicing is required every 12 months or 25,000 km. The brand also offers pre-paid service plans, allowing buyers to lock in costs upfront for predictable ownership expenses.
Fuel Costs
The hybrid’s efficiency means owners can expect noticeably lower petrol bills than non-hybrid SUVs in the same class, especially for those who frequently drive in stop-start city conditions.
Insurance and Resale
Peugeot vehicles typically have moderate insurance premiums, and the 3008’s European prestige may aid its resale appeal among style-conscious buyers.
Practicality and Everyday Use
Boot Space and Flexibility
With 520 litres of cargo space, the Peugeot 3008 handles family gear, groceries, and luggage with ease. The wide tailgate and low load lip make it easy to stow larger items.
Folding the rear seats expands the capacity substantially, and the flat loading floor ensures practical usability.
Storage Options
Inside, the cabin offers multiple storage compartments including large door bins, a deep centre console box, and cupholders designed for Australian-sized drink bottles.
Family Friendliness
ISOFIX mounting points, rear air vents, and quiet cabin refinement make the 3008 a comfortable family hauler. Parents will appreciate the easy access height and wide-opening rear doors.
Performance and Ride Comfort Compared to Rivals
Against segment favourites like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Mazda CX-5, and Hyundai Tucson, the Peugeot 3008 positions itself as a stylish, slightly more premium choice.
While the RAV4 outshines it in outright fuel efficiency, the 3008 counters with superior cabin quality and exclusivity. The CX-5 remains the driver’s choice, but the Peugeot’s emphasis on refinement and design appeals to buyers seeking something more sophisticated.
If you prefer individuality over mainstream familiarity, the 3008 delivers precisely that—European class and design that’s hard to ignore.
Ride Comfort and Noise Levels
One of the standout attributes of the 3008 is its refined ride quality. The suspension tuning absorbs most road imperfections gracefully, and the cabin insulation ensures minimal wind or tyre noise. Even at highway speeds, the interior feels serene, which is rare for SUVs in this category.
This quiet, smooth demeanour makes the 3008 ideal for families, commuters, or professionals who spend long hours behind the wheel.
Build Quality and Reliability
Peugeot’s reputation for build quality has grown stronger in recent years, and the 3008 reflects that progress. The cabin materials feel durable and well-assembled, while the switchgear operates with precision.
The hybrid system, being a relatively new introduction, is engineered for reliability and backed by strong European testing standards. Regular servicing and adherence to maintenance schedules ensure longevity.
Who Should Buy the Peugeot 3008?
The Peugeot 3008 is perfect for:
- Urban professionals wanting a stylish, tech-rich SUV.
- Families needing practical space with premium touches.
- Eco-conscious drivers seeking a mild-hybrid option without EV charging hassles.
- Buyers wanting something different from mainstream Japanese or Korean SUVs.
It’s less suited to those who prioritise the absolute lowest fuel consumption or maximum cargo capacity, but for most Australian households, the 3008’s blend of efficiency and elegance is a winning formula.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique French design and premium cabin quality
- Smooth, refined hybrid performance
- Comfortable and quiet ride
- Generous tech and safety features
- Competitive warranty and servicing
Cons:
- Premium pricing compared to rivals
- Middle rear seat space limited
- Small steering wheel may feel unusual initially
- Not as sporty as some alternatives
Verdict – Peugeot 3008 in Australia
The Peugeot 3008 successfully blends French elegance with modern practicality. Its hybrid powertrain marks an important step toward efficiency, while its interior quality and design stand out in a sea of sameness.
For Australian buyers who value individuality, craftsmanship, and comfort, the 3008 represents one of the most distinctive mid-size SUVs available. It may not dominate the sales charts, but it delivers charm and character in a market that often feels predictable.
If you’re ready to step away from the ordinary, the Peugeot 3008 might be your perfect fit – a sophisticated SUV that’s as stylish as it is sensible.
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