The Peugeot 5008: Another Vehicle Not Coming To America

Last year, it was announced that the French automotive company Peugeot was planning to bring their fleet of cars to North America. As of today, it has been 30 years since the company sold a car in the United States. Throughout the course of 2020, we continued to learn more and more about the promising venture.

At first, we heard that we could expect to see Peugeot arrive in 2023, and then we were told that they would likely bring us their SUVs instead of their hatchbacks/sedans; they even changed their logo. Unfortunately, none of this is going to come to fruition.

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Peugeot’s parent company (Stellantis) announced last week that the French manufacturer would no longer be getting the green light to venture over to the States and Canada. The reason for this decision is to allow Alfa Romeo to continue to grow and develop in this part of the world.

Most people may not really be affected by the news; this is likely due to the fact that the last time we could purchase their cars, people would often choose a Ford Taurus instead. The difference between now and then, however, is the fact that Americans and Canadians have gone SUV crazy. Therefore, it’s pretty likely that many people would have enjoyed some of Peugeot’s options, specifically, the 5008.

Let’s take a look at what we are missing out on.

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The Figures: Price, Specs, And Driving

Via: Peugeot

The 5008’s base model (or Active Premium trim) can be purchased for around $38,728, while the top-of-the-line GT Premium package can be purchased for about $55,542. Depending upon the trim level you want, you have the option of choosing between a manual or automatic gearbox.

The chosen transmission will then be mated to either a 1.2/1.6 liter turbocharged gas engine or a 1.6/2.0 liter turbo-diesel engine. You can expect to see a very non-SUVish 40 mpg with the 1.6-liter petrol power unit. The 1.6 diesel offers even more amazing numbers, as Peugeot claims a driver could potentially see up to 60 mpg.

When it comes to actually drive the 5008, it is surprisingly quick and committed despite only being offered with front-wheel drive. According to Top Gear’s review, the gas-powered engine options tend to fair much better when it comes handling.

This is due to the significant weight difference over the front wheels when compared to the diesel alternative. While it is no race car by any measure, it is surprisingly capable, as long as you haven’t completely packed the vehicle to the brim with passengers and gear.

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The 5008 Is A Looker

Via: Best New Cars

As mentioned earlier, the 5008 was designed to serve as Peugeot’s full-size SUV option. Due to its long length, it is able to accommodate up to 7 passengers inside of it. Keeping focus on the outside of the vehicle, you’ll notice that the outside is splattered with chrome bits and “off-roadish” plastic body cladding. While this does look appealing, it is an interesting choice for an SUV that does not currently offer an all-wheel-drive option among its various trim levels.

A medium-sized grille adorns the front, while a pronounced lip spoiler and black bumper occupy the rear. On the sides, consumers can expect to see 17, 18, or 19-inch gray or black alloy wheels. For those who are weekend warriors, roof rails can be equipped to attach your bike, kayak, paddleboard, or ski rack. Additionally, you can kit your SUV out with a large panoramic sunroof if you wish.

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A Refined And Technology Filled Cabin

Via: Peugeot

As one expects from a large French vehicle, the inside is chock full of comfort and technology. You’ll have the choice of cloth or leather seats (if you want to spend an extra $1,800, you can have red Nappa leather). The driver and passenger seats can be heated if you so choose, and there is even an option to allow the drivers’ seat to provide massaging.

This can be helpful for those really stressful days when you just can’t seem to find a parking spot that will fit your massive SUV. Speaking of parking, the 5008 comes standard with a rear parking aid function; however, automated parallel and bay parking assist can be fitted if you fork over a bit more dough.

The entertainment system dubbed the “I-Cockpit”, slightly curves the dash around the driver. This allows for a more user-friendly interface that feels tailored to the driver’s needs. In the 5008, this is heavily characterized by the large 10″ touch screen that furnishes the center of the dashboard. A backup camera, GPS, and phone services can all be viewed on this screen.

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Verdict Of The Peugeot 5008

Via: Motor 1

The 5008 is a good SUV for those who only plan on sticking to the pavement, with the exception of limited excursions to campgrounds and soccer fields. While it has no all-wheel drive, it does what most people expect of a large SUV nowadays; carry lots of stuff with ease.

The 5008 is one of the prettier SUV options on the market and is relatively cheap for a 7 seater. While there are definitely plenty of alternatives, you’ll be hard-pressed to find another that has gas mileage estimates comparative to that of the 5008. If you live in America, however, don’t worry; we can’t get it anyways.

NEXT: A Detailed Look Back At The Peugeot 504