Used Peugeot 5008 2017-present review

It's true that the first Peugeot 5008 was a rather conservative-looking MPV, but this stylish, hard-edged and eye-catching second-generation version, launched in 2017, is most definitely an on-trend SUV.

With a raised-up driving position and its rugged good looks, it might come as a surprise to learn that it can house seven people, making it very useful for anyone with an expanding family, and in part explaining the extra length over the similar-looking but five-seat Peugeot 3008.

Trim levels kick off with Active, which comes with electric windows, dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, auto lights and wipers and much more, while next-step-up Allure throws in sat-nav, a rear-view camera, 18in alloy wheels and privacy glass. Top-spec GT and GT Premium trims gets larger wheels, sporty interior trimmings and a panoramic glass sunroof, although it should be noted that this does restrict the rear head room a little.

On the road, all engines push the 5008 at a good lick – even the 1.2 petrol, which turns out to be surprisingly smooth and eager to rev and easily up to the job of hauling a fully loaded car around. The 1.6 petrol adds more pep, but at the expense of fuel economy. The 1.6 and 2.0 diesels get along well, too, with plenty of low-down grunt, with the 178bhp version especially lively.

Around corners, the 5008 does pretty well, too, with quick steering, plenty of grip and safe and predictable handling – albeit with a bit more body lean than one or two of its rivals. The car rides well, too, on suspension that is quite softly set up; only on the larger 19in wheels of some top-spec versions does the 5008 start to notice potholes and road irregularities a little too keenly.

Moreover, the 5008 is a very refined car and is at its best on motorways, where wind and road noise are well contained, with engine noise generally low. The car works well with an automatic gearbox, too, adding an extra air of suaveness to proceedings.

Inside is an impressive and solidly built interior with an excellent driving position and good visibility. The materials are especially impressive, with soft-touch materials used where you see and interact with the most, with chrome highlights and stylish cloth inserts adding a touch of flair. The 5008 follows the Peugeot design philosophy of mounting its instruments high up on the dashboard, above the eye line of the very small steering wheel. It works well here, as does the layout of the major and minor controls, although temperature has to be adjusted on the touchscreen and is an occasional nuisance.

The 5008 was mildly facelifted and refreshed in 2020. Outside, there were new LED headlights and taillights, a redesigned ‘frameless’ front grille and the 5008 model name moved to just above the grille. Inside, the centrally mounted infotainment touchscreen grew in size from 8.0in to 10.0in (on Allure trim upwards). AppleCarPlayand Android Auto smartphone mirroring were made standard across the range. The 12.3in ‘iCockpit’ digital dashboard was upgraded to be clearer and easier to read than before, and its new graphics are crisper and more legible at a glance. 

If you're interested in buying a used Peugeot 5008, or any of the other cars mentioned here, check out our used car classifieds section here. 

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