Peugeot 5008 2.0 HDi - a slightly different minivan

A large glass surface, soft suspension, seats at a considerable distance from the asphalt - this is a shortened recipe for a compact van. The designers of the 5008 model went a slightly different way.

In March 2009, a new chapter in the history of Peugeot began. The concern introduced the 3008 model, which filled the gap between compact station wagons and crossovers. The brand followed the blow. Using the mechanics of 3008, she created the 5008 model. In the fall of 2009, an unusual minivan saw the light of day. A few months ago, Peugeot sent the car for rejuvenation. Its effect is not impressive. The biggest change was made to the front apron with headlights reminiscent of the Peugeot 2008 and 308.

The French minivan did not require serious modifications. It still looks original and is of interest. The characteristic body lines of the Peugeot 5008 balance on the verge of compact station wagons and classic minivans. In terms of length and width, the body of the 5008 does not differ from the new 308 SW. The body, which has become 17 cm higher, has made it possible to design a much more spacious interior.

The interior did not duplicate the solutions that we know from other vans. The dashboard and center console wrap around the driver, the shift lever is high, the steering wheel is angled in compact cars, and the A-pillars lack the van-specific extra windows.

The cab is finished with quality materials that fit snugly and are carefully wrapped. Even when passing large irregularities, the interior does not emit unpleasant sounds. It is a pity that the good impression is not enhanced by the functionality and ergonomics of the Peugeot 5008. Theoretically, everything is convenient and at hand. Let's try to turn the radio down. We instinctively reach for the only handle and change ... the scale of the map. The volume is controlled by buttons on the audio system panel and a remote control hidden behind the steering wheel.

A row of seven buttons is located at the top of the center console. As many as five of them are used to control the functions ... of the projection display. They will remain inactive after choosing the optimal settings. For unknown reasons, the frequently used central locking button is located on the passenger side. Contrary to current trends, Peugeot used a 1-DIN radio. The space above it was filled with an open 1 DIN pocket. The automotive world knows more aesthetic glove boxes. The specific shape of the cockpit did not allow the construction of a large number of coasters or storage compartments. A huge hiding place between the chairs is trying to save the situation.

The van had plenty of room for luggage. In the five-seater configuration, we have 679 liters at our disposal. Ordering additional seats reduces the luggage compartment of the Peugeot 5008 to a still sufficient 512 liters. The second and third row seats fold easily and quickly to form a flat surface. The possibility of individual folding of the seats facilitates the arrangement of the cabin. We easily transport 2,5-meter items - just fold the front seat back.

Peugeot's stable van works best in a 5-seater configuration. Passengers will enjoy more space and plenty of room for luggage. The extra row of seats comes in handy in an emergency. It has enough space only for children, and when the seats are unfolded, the trunk becomes symbolic - it shrinks to 213 liters.

The driver should have no problem finding the optimal position. The range of adjustment of the seat and steering column is quite large. Unfortunately, the situation is not so good in the second row. Folding tables take up valuable space at knee height. They become a problem when a driver of the same height sits behind a driver who is 1,8 meters tall. If adults often have to drive a car, all that remains is to reach for a screwdriver - you can’t refuse tables, they are standard in Active, Style and Allure versions.

We mentioned that the Peugeot is a twin of the 3008. This means there is no overly complicated suspension under the body. It consists of MacPherson struts and a torsion beam. However, skillfully selected settings ensured high comfort and very decent driving performance. The electro-hydraulic power steering is also a pleasant surprise. The assist has been well matched and the rider can feel the traction reserves. The gearbox can also encourage a lively ride - accurate and smooth, albeit with a slightly overstated jack travel.

Under the hood of the test specimen is a 2.0 HDi engine that develops 150 hp. at 3750 rpm and 340 Nm at 2000 rpm. Performance is more than enough. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 10 seconds, with a top speed of 195 km/h. During the test, the on-board computer showed approximately 7,5 l / 100 km in the combined cycle. Many drivers find the 115-horsepower 1.6 HDi engine to be the optimal source of propulsion. It still delivers sufficient performance, consumes less fuel and costs PLN 4500 less than the 2.0 HDi.

The diesel engine was soundproofed. When driving fast, only muffled noise in the cabin is heard. This is one of the things that makes the Peugeot 5008 a good long-distance companion. The seats are comfortable, the JBL-signed audio system delivers clear sound, and for PLN 4000, Peugeot offers a video package consisting of front-seat headrest monitors and two pairs of wireless headphones.

In everyday use, the size and slope of the A-pillars are annoying - they narrow the field of view. A turning radius of 11,1 meters means the Peugeot 5008 is as easy to maneuver as a compact car. It is almost invisible from behind, so for the Active version it is worth buying parking sensors. An option on the most expensive Allure trim is a rear-view camera that comes with the navigation package. The navigation system with a 7-inch display is currently free of charge. It is a pity that the camera remained an expensive option - it costs PLN 2500. We have mixed feelings about whether it's worth paying extra. At night, only guide lines are visible on an unlit road.

The cheapest Peugeot 5008 with a 1.6 VTi engine costs PLN 70. Anyone interested in buying a 900 HP HDi has to prepare PLN 150. At least theoretically, because salons, fighting for a client, offer discounts from 93 to 400 thousand zlotys. The Active version is decently equipped. The standard includes, among other things, dual-zone climate control, navigation, cruise control, speed limiter and 3-inch alloy wheels. The cost of the flagship 10 16 HDi Allure starts at PLN 5008. Its equipment is not yet complete. Additional payments are required, including xenon headlights, front parking sensors and heated seats.

A van with a lion on the hood is trying to prove that a family car can be fun to drive. The model is not without flaws, but most of them do not affect everyday use. The French once again proved that they are masters of designing vans. Even if they decide to build a slightly different van...