Peugeot 3008 MPV

Drive

We like the entry-level 1.6-litre petrol engine with 118bhp. On the road, its performance is adequate, but it's still not the best option; the 148bhp 1.6-litre THP petrol is an even better bet, as it's fast and fuel efficient. As for the HDi diesel options, the 1.6-litre 107bhp version is smooth and has enough punch, but the more powerful 2.0-litre engines with 150bhp and 163bhp are fast and frugal. Peugeot's Dynamic Roll Control package dramatically improves the 3008's handling and makes it feel more controlled in bends, so it's worthwhile spending extra on. Cars without it are prone to body roll and the ride isn't quite as comfortable, but the steering is light on every model.

Comfort

Despite the size of the 3008 and its tall dimensions, there's not much in the way of wind noise and the cabin is pretty quiet, even at speed. The seats are comfortable, although they could do with a little more back support. A large windscreen is standard on all models and it stretches up over the driver's head, letting  plenty of light into the interior. Again, cars with the optional Dynamic Roll Control package are more comfortable, so it's worth spending the extra money for it.

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Reliability

Six airbags, electronic stability control and Isofix child seat mountings are standard. The 3008 scored a maximum five stars overall in the Euro NCAP crash tests, which is very impressive. However, the Peugeot is quite a new model, so reliability is hard to predict. The company hasn't been renowned for strong performance in this area in the past, especially seeing as it finished 24th out of 27 in the manufacturers' category of the 2010 JD Power Satisfaction  survey. Nonetheless, the 3008 is extremely well built and a vast improvement over Peugeots of old, so we'd expect it to do better than its predecessors.

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Practicality

Versatility is at the core of the 3008's appeal. It has a split tailgate that opens in two parts and the boot itself can accommodate a decent 512 litres of luggage. The boot also has a moveable floor with three different positions and the rear seats split 60/40 and fold down to create a totally flat floor. Up front, there's a seemingly endless amount of storage including big door pockets, a pair of cup-holders, a large box in the centre console and more.

Value for money

Starting prices are quite affordable, and the entry-level Active model comes with a CD stereo, front foglights, electric front windows, air-conditioning, an electric parking brake with hill-start assist and electronic stability control. Sport models add 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, heating and cooling controls for back-seat passengers and the crucial Dynamic Roll Control. The Exclusive trim level includes a panoramic glass roof, rain sensing wipers, rear blinds, automatic headlamps, tyre pressure sensors and climate control.

Running costs

Diesel models are very cheap to run and offer between 50mpg and 57mpg, depending on the exact model. Petrol versions are pricier and return 39.7mpg and 39.8mpg. Insurance groups start at 15 and top out at 22, which is quite low, helping keep running costs down.