The Peugeot 3008 GT-Line: a Space Odyssey
Driving different cars each week is not only enjoyable but also, sometimes, akin to stepping back into the past. Or, in the case of the Peugeot 3008 GT Line, a fast forward into the future.
It can be said that German cars are somewhat ‘sterile’ while Japanese cars are great but relatively dull. When it comes to the French models, they are somewhat futuristic and ‘gadgetry’. Such is the feeling you have after driving the 3008.
The 308 already claimed the European Car of the Year for 2014 and is a contender for the WESBANK SAGMJ Car of the Year in South Africa. So it must have something of value and deep within the underbelly, the potential to surprise the public.
At the heart of the 3008 GT-Line is a 3-cylinder, 1.2-litre PureTech turbo engine. It develops 96kW and 230Nm torque which, if one didn’t know, could quite easily be confused with a 2.0 litre power plant.
Coupled to an auto box with the obligatory ‘sports’ mode thismodel really moves – push manual (located at the base of a somewhat strange selector lever) and the car performs like a GT. The paddles provide good contact (not as great as German products) but more than acceptable.
This 1.2-litre motor makes for great highway cruising and reduces travel to an effortless activity. If you don’t watch it the 3008 quickly propels you to illegal speeds and – while not tested – possible those that would warrant being locked up.
Best of all it is capable of about 5 litres/100km on the combined cycle, but realistically it is closer to 6. For the environmentalist, the CO2 figures come in at 110g/km.
It’s no ordinary looking car and does attract attention. One gets full LED, automatic headlights and a chrome trimmings around the driving lights and lower air dam. Gloss black mirrors make for a sporty look while two, dual exhaust tips flank a gloss black diffuser panel.
It rides on low profile tyres wrapped around black and diamond cut 17-inch alloy wheels.
Smack bang in the centre is the HVAC controls, as the SMEG2 interfaces with its large 9-inch touch screen. In all honesty, I felt it was a bit gimmicky and sometimes confusing. One should take some time and study the dash and then test it before driving off – otherwise distraction is a guarantee.
The half-leather and Alcantara seats are a work of art and have a sporty shape. They are comfortable and stylish and as part of the GT-Line appointment, come with red-stitched seams. This theme is carried to the doors and steering wheel. Speaking of which, it is dis-proportionally small to the rest of the interior – sporty and different but still something one needs to adjust to.
It is a lot of vehicle and guarantees to provide a high level of excitement. Yet, at R400,000 odd it seems steep – I guess the public will decide if it is value for money. While they may not be the first choice of any buyer in that category would be doing themselves a disservice if they didn’t test it.
Sam says… it lacks for nothing
There is literally nothing that the makers of the Peugeot 3008 GT Line have overlooked to make a smooth and enjoyable ride. While, ordinarily, I would struggle to find the time to test and learn about the technology, after one run through, while stationary, I understood and could easily use everything it had to offer.
Like Eugene noted, the power of the ride is fantastic. Even when you reach the speed limit, it feels like it is just the tip of the iceberg and has so much more to offer. My personal favourite perk, however, was definitely the ‘cat paw’ massage setting in the driver’s seat. Definitely a worthy contender in this category.
Specifications:
Engine: Petrol 1200 cc / 3 cylinder
Power: 96 kW / 230 Nm
Gears: 6 speed auto
Warranty: 3 year/100,000 km
Service: 5 year / 100,000 km
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