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As Peugeot shows its re-engineered baby SUV, the 2008, spy images surface of an all-new mid-sizer.
PEUGEOT is preparing to take on the hugely successful Mazda CX-3 with a comprehensively updated 2008 SUV, set for launch in the fourth quarter this year.
The 2008 Series II will have a butch new look and a far more modern drivetrain option.
The pair will give Peugeot unfettered access to two of the fastest growing segments in Australia for the first time, according to marketing manager, Dimitri Andreatidis.
To debut internationally at the Geneva Motor Show early next month, ahead of an Australian launch in about October, the facelifted 2008, mimics the 208 Series II supermini by adopting a sharper nose treatment with more aggressive chrome detailing and redesigned air intakes.
More importantly, the old 88kW 1.6-litre four-pot atmo unit and antiquated four-speed automatic powertrain that hobbled the 2008 in Australia since its 2013 release has been dumped.
It gives way to the 208’s recently acquired 81kW/205Nm 1.2-litre e-THP three-cylinder turbo petrol engine, driving the front wheels via a six-speed auto – and promising improved performance and efficiency.
Meanwhile, to be built at the Sochaux home plant in France alongside the T9 308 that sired it, the 3008 II – known internally as the P84 – is expected to take centre stage at the Paris Motor Show in October.
As these spy images of a 3008 development vehicle suggest, the size and proportions appear to follow those of the Mazda CX-5 quite closely, underlining the increasingly international appeal that Peugeot vehicles are adopting in order for them to pay their way.
Plus, an EV hybrid system driving the rear axle will provide additional traction on some versions, while 1.6-litre turbo-petrol and an all-new 1.5-litre turbo-diesel family, some with the option of an as-yet unseen eight-speed automatic, are also said to be on the cards.
While barely making a blip in Australia with just 1682 registrations since landing here in 2010, the 3008 has exceeded 700,000 sales worldwide, so its success is vital to the brand.
