A few weeks back I talked about Peugeot’s new small 3008 SUV introduced by an all-new importer for the French brand – the entry price of $36,990 is well above the likes of the top-selling Mitsubishi’s ASX and the Mazda 3. When I first previewed the 3008’s arrival I questioned whether Peugeot could not command this stand-alone pricing. Now that I’ve spent time with it the 3008 offers much for the extra money. Like the four 3008 models the Active is a front wheel drive 1.6-litre petrol turbo six speed automatic with manual shift paddles – the performance is surprising so too the interior which can put many prestige models to shame – fabulous seats, an innovative steering wheel that’s flat on the top and bottom and it works so well and a wonderful dashboard and interior. For the extra money you get a small SUV that‘s a cut above – great French style, quiet with refined performance and fabulous brakes. The equipment list is extensive – 17-inch alloys, a 180 degree reversing camera, an 8-inch colour touch screen, cruise control with a speed limiter, lane departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, alloy roof rails, Bluetooth, 3D navigation – the list is impressive. Yes, you’ll pay more but this small five-seat Peugeot 3008 SUV is a cut above – in some ways it feels more like a prestige model – the interior quality and finishers first class. Very well sound proofed from engine and road noise and this gives it a premium feel. I’m David Berthon

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