Australian Peugeot dealers are rubbing their hands in anticipation preparing for the mid-2010 arrival of the gloriously styled 3008 crossover hatchback.
Especially on the back of news that Italy’s motoring journalists’ peak body UIGA (Unione Italiana dei Giornalisti dell’ Automobile) has awarded the 3008 its Auto Europa 2010 prize.
Out of 19 all-new vehicles launched in Italy this year, the 200 Italian scribes picked the Peugeot for its high levels of technology, style, aerodynamics, safety, equipment and performance.
Not surprising really considering a few stats. For example the 3008’s aerodynamic body delivers a drag coefficient of just 0.296 (remarkable given its modern, high roof line) and this combines with new technology in the 2.0-litre HDi diesel engine to return fuel economy as low as 5.6l/100kms and C02 emissions of 146g/km.
Technology includes Grip Control, Dynamic Roll Control, Distance Alert, Hill Assist and Electronic Stability Control.
Practicality looks impressive too with an interesting 3-way height adjustment for the cargo area intended to ease the day-to-day management of different loads. With a load length of 2.62 metres and a width of 1,030mm, the 3008 delivers a maximum cargo volume (with all seats folded) of 1,604 litres.
Launched in Europe in March, the 3008 has been a runaway success for Peugeot with 40,000 orders so far and the French manufacturer should easily surpass its target of 90,000 European sales this year.
The 3008 will join European rivals such as the Renault Koleos, Volkswagen Tiguan and Audi Q5 competing for a slice of our Euro Mini SUV-Crossover market segment.
