Peugeot's Over-the-top Electric 5008 SUV Model Shows Off Capable Electric Performance
A Fresh Look at the Peugeot E-5008:
Last year, the Peugeot E-5008 strutted onto the EV scene, making a bold statement in the mid-sized, 7-seater SUV category. With its roots traceable back to the 1971 504 Familiale, this electric powerhouse aimed to please families everywhere.
However, let's face it, style and elegance don't always go hand in hand with SUVs. Despite a reasonable overall design, the E-5008 seemed to miss a beat or two—particularly when it came to the finer details.
The rear view, boasting an angled, chromed D-pillar and dramatic creases, strikes a pose that's worthy of an awards show. Contrast that with the front-end—jagged, discombobulated, and fragmented, falling short of sleek and sophisticated refinement. This is especially apparent in the E-3008, as I found myself questioning the quirky grille design.
The interior is a different story, however. Embracing character and contradiction, it channels the wildest days of BMW interiors from the 2010s, only to take things a step further. A wraparound cockpit, tactile materials, and an expansive dash screen draw you in—despite a small steering wheel that takes some getting used to.
So, what about the E-5008's legacy? Sadly, it seems that the golden era that once defined Peugeot has come to an end. As SUVs ruthlessly take over the middle market, sedans and estates become a rare, almost exotic choice for the fading few.
The interior space? First-rate. The spec and build quality? Impressive. But the long-range estimate of 414 miles, thanks to the 97kWh battery, seems optimistic compared to the 310 miles claimed by the regular model, equipped with a 73kWh unit.
Handling and performance are solid, but the E-5008 lacks the agility and finesse that once set Peugeot apart. As Stellantis deploys its STLA Medium platform beneath the E-5008, the benefits of widespread platform sharing continue to favor the profitable SUV segment.
Brands like Stellantis, with their lengthy portfolios, must adapt to distinguish their vehicles. Unfortunately, for Peugeot, the design language that garnered admiration in the past has lost its charm in the present. At this point, the E-5008 shouts rather than seduces.
Peugeot E-5008, from £48,660, Peugeot.co.uk
Bonus Round:
- The Peugeot 3008's (Second Generation, 2016-Present) evolution: Announced in 2016, the second-gen 3008 followed in the footsteps of its predecessor by blending SUV and MPV elements. However, it was the car's interior where real innovation occurred, most notably with the introduction of Peugeot's iCockpit and smaller, more digitalized interface.
- The Peugeot 508 (Second Generation, 2018-Present): While the E-5008 may have stolen the show as Peugeot's latest SUV, the 508 is worth a mention. Its sleek design, refined handling, and luxurious interior have made it a strong competitor in the luxury sedan market. Recently, though, Peugeot announced that the 508 would discontinue production, likely due to the SUV market's dominant position.
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The Peugeot 3008, with its evolved interior featuring Peugeot's iCockpit and digitalized interface, showcases a blend of SUV and MPV elements.
On the other hand, the Peugeot 5008, despite being overshadowed by its electric counterpart, boasts a sleek design, refined handling, and luxurious interior, making it a notable competitor in the luxury sedan market. However, it has been announced that the 5008 will discontinue production due to the market's dominance by SUVs.
