This week I previewed Peugeot’s all-new small 2008 SUV due in a few months, a big leap up from the previous model, an all-new design slightly larger with a big lift in price but also in equipment– two front drive variants, both with 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engines – the 96kW Allure in six speed automatic for $34,990, the 114kW GT Sport in eight speed auto with manual shift paddles $43,990 – this model not inexpensive when you consider the top-spec medium-sized 3008 GT-line is only $1,000 more. First impression – great engines, I love the torquey nature of three cylinders, the GT Sport as the name implies a great performer and a smooth shifter.

I love the packaging, great dash, materials and colour palette. typically French and stand apart. How did I find the driving – I’ll reserve my final opinion to my local drive route – the steering very direct with a small diameter steering wheel, the power assistance strongly weighted off centre which along with the quick ratio makes the new Peugeot 2008 very twitchy in corners. Nevertheless, a nice ride especially with the GT Sport’s larger 18-inch wheels. Ergonomically the interior and dash has some really nice touches but one annoyance is the way the top of the steering wheel hides the instrumentation. Safety and driver assist technology abounds including three welcome drive modes on the GT Sport.

I’m David Berthon

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