Peugeot’s Bold New Direction
The automotive landscape is evolving rapidly, and few manufacturers are embracing this change as enthusiastically as Peugeot. With the release of their redesigned 2025 3008 and 5008 models, the French automaker has made a definitive statement about their vision for the future of mobility. These aren’t mere updates—they represent complete reimaginings of Peugeot’s crossover lineup, bringing striking design, innovative technology, and electrification options that deserve serious attention.
The 3008, now in its third generation, has transformed from a conventional compact crossover into a sleek, fastback-inspired SUV with unmistakable presence. Meanwhile, the larger 5008 maintains its focus on practicality while adopting the bold design language of its smaller sibling. Both models showcase Peugeot’s commitment to blending style with substance in ways that few mainstream manufacturers have attempted.
Having spent considerable time with both vehicles during their international launch, I can confidently say these new models represent some of the most interesting offerings in their respective segments. Let’s dive deeper into what makes them special, what compromises they make, and whether they deserve a spot on your shopping list.
Table of Contents
Design Revolution: Breaking the Crossover Mold
Exterior Styling: Distinctive and Polarizing
The 2025 3008 is nothing short of a design revolution. Gone is the conventional crossover shape of previous generations, replaced by a fastback-inspired silhouette with dramatic proportions. The front end features Peugeot’s signature “fang” daytime running lights that extend down from ultra-slim headlamps, creating an immediately recognizable face. The grille has been reimagined as a seamless panel that integrates with the bumper, while the hood’s creases create a muscular stance.
In profile, the 3008’s sloping roofline is its most distinctive feature, creating a silhouette more akin to a coupe than a traditional SUV. This design choice certainly enhances aesthetics but does impact rear headroom somewhat. The rear features a light bar that spans the width of the vehicle, another modern design touch that’s becoming increasingly common but is executed with particular flair here.
The 5008 shares many design elements with its smaller sibling but adopts a more traditional SUV shape to accommodate its third row of seats. It’s slightly longer and taller, with a more upright rear end that prioritizes interior space. Despite these practical concessions, it maintains the same striking front-end design and premium appearance.
Both models feature distinctive wheel designs ranging from 19 to 21 inches, depending on trim level. Color options include several striking new choices, including the eye-catching Obsession Blue that appears to change hue depending on lighting conditions.
Interior: Digital Luxury for the Mainstream
If the exterior designs are bold, the interiors are nothing short of revolutionary for vehicles in this price range. Peugeot has completely reimagined the cabin experience, centered around what they call the Panoramic i-Cockpit. This setup features a curved 21-inch display that combines the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen into one seamless unit that appears to float above the dashboard.
Material quality has taken a significant leap forward. Soft-touch surfaces cover most touchpoints, and ambient lighting with customizable colors creates a premium atmosphere. The center console is uncluttered, with most functions controlled through the touchscreen or by using the small number of physical i-toggle shortcuts below the main display.
The steering wheel remains small and set lower than in most vehicles—a Peugeot signature that promotes viewing the instruments over the wheel rather than through it. This arrangement continues to be somewhat polarizing; some drivers love the sporty feel, while others find it takes adjustment.
In the 3008, rear passenger space is adequate though not class-leading, with the sloping roofline stealing some headroom from taller passengers. The 5008, however, offers genuinely usable space for all three rows, making it one of the more practical seven-seaters in its class. When not needed, the third row folds flat into the floor, creating a massive cargo area.
Powertrains: Embracing Electrification
Electric and Hybrid Options
Peugeot has made electrification a cornerstone of the new 3008 and 5008 lineup, offering three distinct powertrain options:
The E-3008 and E-5008 represent the fully electric variants, available with either standard or long-range battery packs. The standard range model delivers 210 horsepower and approximately 326 miles of range (WLTP cycle), while the long-range version boosts that to around 435 miles—impressive figures that place these models among the longest-range mainstream EVs available.
For those not ready to go fully electric, the Hybrid versions combine a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 136 horsepower. This option provides improved efficiency without the need for plugging in.
The Plug-in Hybrid variants blend a similar 1.2-liter engine with a more powerful electric motor and a 19.7kWh battery pack, creating a combined 195 horsepower system. This setup allows for approximately 50 miles of electric-only driving before the gasoline engine kicks in.
According to independent testing by the European automotive publication Auto Express, the electric models offer impressive performance despite their focus on efficiency, with the standard E-3008 achieving 0-62 mph in approximately 8.8 seconds, while the long-range version drops that time to around 7.5 seconds.
Driving Dynamics: Comfort with Control
Peugeot has carefully tuned the suspension to deliver a comfortable ride without feeling floaty. The 3008 is particularly agile for a crossover, with precise steering and minimal body roll. The small steering wheel amplifies this sense of responsiveness, making the vehicle feel nimble around town and surprisingly confident on winding roads.
The 5008, despite its larger dimensions, manages to maintain most of these positive characteristics. It’s not quite as sharp as the 3008, but it never feels unwieldy, and the slightly softer suspension tuning is appropriate for its family-focused mission.
Both models feature multiple drive modes that adjust throttle response, steering weight, and in the case of the hybrid models, the balance between electric and gasoline power. “Eco” maximizes efficiency, while “Sport” sharpens responses for more engaging driving. Electric models also offer a “B” mode that increases regenerative braking for one-pedal driving in urban environments.
Road and wind noise suppression is noteworthy across the range, with the electric versions being particularly serene. This refined character makes both the 3008 and 5008 excellent companions for longer journeys, an impression reinforced by comfortable seating and thoughtful ergonomics.
Technology and Features: Future-Forward
Infotainment and Connectivity
The centerpiece of both models’ technology suite is the new Panoramic i-Cockpit system. The curved 21-inch display houses both the driver information and the central infotainment functions, powered by Peugeot’s latest software. The graphics are crisp and modern, though there is a brief learning curve to mastering the menu structure.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the range, as is a wireless charging pad. The navigation system features augmented reality directions that overlay guidance arrows on a live camera feed of the road ahead—a genuinely useful feature in complex urban environments.
Voice control functionality has been significantly improved, now responding to natural language commands like “I’m cold” to adjust climate settings. In testing, the system proved more reliable than previous Peugeot efforts, though still not quite at the level of the best systems from premium brands.
Audio options include a standard six-speaker system or an optional 10-speaker Focal premium audio setup that delivers impressive clarity and power. The Focal system is particularly worth considering for audiophiles or those who spend significant time in their vehicles.
Driver Assistance and Safety
Peugeot has equipped the 2025 3008 and 5008 with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality works smoothly in traffic, while lane-keeping assistance provides subtle corrections when needed.
The Drive Assist Plus package adds semi-autonomous driving capabilities for highway use, combining adaptive cruise and lane centering to reduce driver fatigue on longer journeys. The system requires hands on the wheel but manages speed and steering with impressive refinement.
Additional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and autonomous emergency braking that can detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Night vision is available on higher trim levels, using an infrared camera to detect obstacles beyond headlight range and displaying them in the digital instrument cluster.
All models include Peugeot’s SOS emergency call system, which can automatically contact emergency services in the event of a serious accident. This feature, combined with the vehicles’ advanced structural design, helped both models earn top safety ratings in European NCAP testing.
Trim Levels and Pricing: Premium Positioning
Available Configurations
The 2025 3008 is available in three primary trim levels:
The Allure serves as the entry point, offering the curved display, fabric/leatherette upholstery, LED lighting, and most essential technology features.
GT trim adds 20-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, Alcantara/leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, and additional driver assistance features.
The range-topping GT Premium includes everything from lower trims plus 21-inch wheels, full Nappa leather, ventilated and massaging front seats, the Focal audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.
The 5008 follows a similar structure but commands approximately a $3,000 premium over equivalent 3008 models due to its larger size and additional seating capacity.
Pricing starts around $39,500 for the hybrid 3008 Allure, with electric models beginning closer to $47,000 before incentives. The top-spec GT Premium with long-range electric powertrain approaches $59,000, positioning it against entry-level offerings from premium brands.
According to the automotive research site Edmunds, these price points place the 3008 and 5008 at the upper end of the mainstream crossover segment, though their distinctive design and technology help justify the premium.
Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment
The 2025 Peugeot 3008 and 5008 have numerous strengths that make them compelling options in the crowded crossover segment. Their distinctive styling ensures they stand out in parking lots dominated by more conservative designs. The interior quality and technology are genuinely impressive, offering a near-luxury experience at mainstream prices. The diverse powertrain options cater to different needs and comfort levels with electrification, and both models deliver refined driving experiences that balance comfort and engagement.
However, these vehicles aren’t without compromises. The 3008’s fastback design reduces rear headroom and cargo space compared to more traditionally shaped rivals. The Panoramic i-Cockpit, while visually stunning, places many controls within the touchscreen interface, which can be distracting while driving. Pricing is ambitious, especially for fully-loaded models that venture into premium brand territory. And while Peugeot’s reliability has improved in recent years, it doesn’t yet match the stellar reputation of some Japanese competitors.
Alternatives: How They Compare
For shoppers considering the 3008, alternatives include the Volkswagen ID.4, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Toyota bZ4X if focusing on electric options. The 3008 offers more distinctive styling than these rivals and generally superior interior quality, though the Ford offers better performance and the Toyota potentially better long-term reliability.
Those looking at the 5008 might also consider the Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, or Skoda Kodiaq. The 5008 stands out with its more upscale interior and striking design, though the Korean alternatives offer longer warranties, and the Skoda provides more interior space.
For buyers willing to stretch their budget into premium territory, the BMW X1/X2, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40 offer alternatives to the 3008, while the Mercedes GLB and Volvo XC60 might tempt potential 5008 buyers. These vehicles offer stronger brand cachet, though the Peugeots actually match or exceed several in terms of technology and visual impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the electric range of the 2025 Peugeot E-3008 compare to competitors?
The 2025 E-3008’s range is genuinely impressive compared to its competitors. The standard range model offers approximately 326 miles on the WLTP cycle, while the long-range version extends this to around 435 miles. This places it ahead of many mainstream electric crossovers like the Volkswagen ID.4 (up to 328 miles) and Ford Mustang Mach-E (up to 379 miles). It’s worth noting that real-world range typically falls 15-20% below these figures, particularly in cold weather or at highway speeds, but the E-3008 still offers class-leading range that should eliminate most range anxiety concerns.
What warranty coverage does Peugeot offer on the new 3008 and 5008?
Peugeot provides a comprehensive warranty package for the 2025 3008 and 5008 models. This includes a standard 3-year/60,000-mile basic warranty covering most vehicle components. The electric powertrain components receive extended coverage of 8 years or 100,000 miles, including the battery, which is also guaranteed to maintain at least 70% of its original capacity during this period. Roadside assistance is included for the first 3 years, and certain wear items like brake pads and wiper blades are covered for 1 year or 12,000 miles. While this coverage is competitive within the mainstream segment, it falls short of the longer warranties offered by some Korean manufacturers.
Is the third row in the 5008 suitable for adults?
The third row in the 2025 Peugeot 5008 is more usable than in previous generations but still has limitations. It can accommodate adults up to about 5’9″ for shorter journeys without excessive discomfort, provided the second-row seats are adjusted forward slightly. Access is relatively straightforward thanks to the tilting and sliding second row. However, for regular adult use or longer trips, the space remains somewhat confined. The third row is ideally suited for children and teenagers, who will find adequate headroom and acceptable legroom. For families who need to transport adults in the third row frequently, larger three-row SUVs or minivans would be more appropriate choices.
How capable is the Peugeot 3008/5008 in winter conditions?
Both the 2025 3008 and 5008 are well-equipped for moderate winter conditions, especially when fitted with appropriate winter tires. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions offer front-wheel drive only, utilizing advanced traction control systems to maximize grip on slippery surfaces. The electric models are available with dual-motor all-wheel drive, providing more confidence in snow and ice. All versions include specific drive modes for slippery conditions that adjust throttle response and stability control parameters. While these vehicles aren’t designed for serious off-roading, they offer ground clearance and electronic aids sufficient for navigating snowy roads, unpaved driveways, and light trail use. For extreme winter environments, dedicated SUVs with more sophisticated all-wheel-drive systems might be preferable.
Conclusion: Breaking New Ground
The 2025 Peugeot 3008 and 5008 represent bold attempts to redefine what mainstream crossovers can be. They successfully blend eye-catching design, impressive technology, and efficient powertrains in packages that feel genuinely forward-looking rather than iterative.
The 3008 will appeal most to style-conscious buyers who want to stand out while enjoying the practicality of a crossover. Its striking design and high-tech interior create an impression typically reserved for more expensive vehicles. Meanwhile, the 5008 offers a rare combination of distinctive styling and seven-seat practicality that few rivals can match.
Both models command premium prices within their segments, but they deliver premium experiences to match. For shoppers willing to look beyond the usual suspects and appreciate innovative design, these new Peugeots offer compelling alternatives in an increasingly homogenized market.
