2013-2016 Peugeot 3008 I (Phase II ) 2.0 BlueHDi (150 Hp)

The Peugeot 3008, a prominent nameplate in the European compact crossover SUV segment, first debuted in 2008. The vehicle discussed here is the Peugeot 3008 I (Phase II, 2013) 2.0 BlueHDi (150 Hp), a significant update to the first generation introduced in 2013 and produced until 2016. Positioned as a versatile family vehicle, the 3008 I aimed to blend the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics and comfort of a conventional hatchback, primarily catering to the European market. While never officially sold in the United States, its design and engineering reflect global automotive trends, emphasizing efficiency, utility, and a refined driving experience. This variant, equipped with the 2.0-liter BlueHDi diesel engine, offered an impressive balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a competitive offering in its class across Europe.

Engine & Performance of the Peugeot 3008 I

The Peugeot 3008 I (Phase II, 2013) 2.0 BlueHDi (150 Hp) is powered by a sophisticated 2.0-liter (1997 cm3 or 121.86 cubic inches) inline four-cylinder BlueHDi diesel engine, designated as AHX DW10FD. This powertrain exemplifies Peugeot’s commitment to advanced diesel technology, designed for robust performance while meeting stringent European emission standards. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 4000 rpm, equating to approximately 75.1 horsepower per liter of displacement. Notably for a diesel, it generates 370 Newton-meters (272.9 lb.-ft.) of torque, available at a low 2000 rpm. This ample low-end torque ensures strong pulling power and effortless acceleration, characteristic of modern diesel powertrains.

The engine’s architecture features a front, transverse layout, driving the front wheels through a precise 6-speed manual transmission. This setup provides an engaging driving experience, allowing the driver full control over power delivery. Key to its efficiency and performance is the advanced fuel injection system, utilizing common rail direct diesel injection, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler. This combination optimizes combustion, enhancing both power output and fuel economy. Furthermore, the BlueHDi technology incorporates a particulate filter, crucial for meeting the Euro 6 emission standard, a significant environmental benchmark at the time.

In terms of performance, the 3008 I 2.0 BlueHDi accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9.2 seconds (0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds), reaching a maximum speed of 121.17 mph (195 km/h). These figures demonstrate its capability for both urban commuting and highway cruising. Fuel economy was a major selling point, with combined consumption rated at an impressive 4.2 liters per 100 kilometers, translating to approximately 56 US mpg. Urban driving yielded 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg), while extra-urban conditions saw consumption drop to 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg). With CO2 emissions of just 109 g/km, the 3008 I 2.0 BlueHDi was a leader in its segment for environmental efficiency.

Design & Features of the Peugeot 3008 I

The Peugeot 3008 I (Phase II) retained the distinctive crossover styling of its predecessor, blending SUV ruggedness with MPV practicality. It featured a 5-door SUV body type, offering seating for five occupants. The Phase II facelift, introduced in 2013, brought subtle yet impactful aesthetic revisions, primarily to the front fascia, aligning it with Peugeot’s evolving design language. This included a redesigned grille, updated headlights, and revised bumper elements, aiming for a more sophisticated and less polarizing appearance.

Inside, the 3008 I prioritized comfort, versatility, and a commanding driving position. The cabin design was driver-focused, with intuitive controls and quality materials for its segment. Practicality was a strong suit, exemplified by its generous trunk space, ranging from a minimum of 512 liters (18.08 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to a cavernous 1604 liters (56.64 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. This flexible cargo capacity made it ideal for families and those requiring ample storage.

The vehicle features a robust drivetrain architecture with front-wheel drive, ensuring predictable handling and efficiency. The suspension system comprises an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, complemented by a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good body control. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, supported by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. Steering is managed by a rack and pinion system, offering responsive feedback. The vehicle rides on 225/50 R17 tires mounted on 17-inch wheel rims, contributing to its stable stance and comfortable ride. A 60-liter (15.85 US gallon) fuel tank provides an excellent cruising range, especially given its impressive fuel economy.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact of the Peugeot 3008 I

The Peugeot 3008 I, particularly in its Phase II iteration with the efficient 2.0 BlueHDi engine, established a significant presence in the competitive European compact SUV segment. Despite its unique blend of SUV and MPV characteristics, which initially drew mixed reactions, the 3008 I became a strong seller for Peugeot, especially after the facelift addressed earlier design concerns. Its reputation was built on practicality, comfort, and, crucially, exceptional fuel efficiency—a key consideration for European consumers.

In its primary markets, the 3008 I competed with rivals such as the Nissan Qashqai, Volkswagen Tiguan, Ford Kuga, and Renault Kadjar. Peugeot differentiated the 3008 through its distinctive styling, interior versatility, and advanced diesel powertrains. The 2.0 BlueHDi (150 Hp) variant was praised for its strong torque delivery and impressive economy, making it attractive to both private buyers and fleet operators. Its Euro 6 compliance also ensured its relevance in an environmentally conscious market.

The 3008 I showcased Peugeot’s engineering capabilities and its ability to adapt to market demands. It solidified Peugeot’s position in the crossover segment and laid the groundwork for the second-generation 3008, which achieved greater commercial success with a more conventional SUV approach. The first-generation 3008 is a transitional model for Peugeot, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to innovation and its ascent in the global automotive landscape, even without a direct presence in North America. Its legacy is that of a practical, efficient, and well-engineered vehicle that successfully navigated its segment and contributed to Peugeot’s brand image and market share.