Peugeot 3008 II (Phase I ) 1.5 BlueHDi (130 Hp) S&S

The Peugeot 3008 II (Phase I, 2016) 1.5 BlueHDi (130 Hp) S&S: A European Compact SUV Prowess

The Peugeot 3008 II, specifically the Phase I model introduced in 2016 and produced from 2017 to 2020, marked a significant departure for the French automaker in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. This second-generation 3008 transformed from a somewhat quirky MPV-SUV crossover into a sleek, modern, and award-winning SUV. While not officially sold in the United States market, the Peugeot 3008 II garnered immense popularity across Europe and other international markets, lauded for its distinctive styling, refined interior, and efficient powertrains. The variant under review, the Peugeot 3008 II (Phase I, 2016) 1.5 BlueHDi (130 Hp) S&S, represents a core offering in its diesel lineup, emphasizing fuel efficiency and a balance of performance suitable for daily driving and longer journeys. It quickly established itself as a formidable competitor against established rivals, earning the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 2017.

Engine and Performance: The Efficient 1.5 BlueHDi Powertrain

At the heart of this particular Peugeot 3008 II lies the YHZ DV5RC 1.5-liter (1499 cm³ or 91.47 cubic inches) BlueHDi diesel engine. This inline four-cylinder unit is a testament to Peugeot’s commitment to diesel refinement and efficiency in the European market. Generating a respectable 130 horsepower at 3750 rpm, the engine delivers its power smoothly, making it well-suited for a vehicle of this size and purpose. More importantly for an SUV, the torque output is impressive: 300 Newton-meters (221.27 pound-feet) available from a low 1750 rpm. This ample low-end torque ensures strong acceleration from a standstill and confident overtaking maneuvers, even when the vehicle is loaded.

The engine’s performance figures reflect its balanced nature. The Peugeot 3008 II (Phase I, 2016) 1.5 BlueHDi (130 Hp) S&S accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a calculated 10.3 seconds (0-100 km/h in 10.8 seconds), with a maximum speed of 119.3 mph (192 km/h). These figures position it as a capable performer within its class, prioritizing real-world usability over outright speed.

Fuel economy is a standout feature of this BlueHDi engine. With a combined fuel consumption rating of 4 liters per 100 kilometers, translating to an excellent 58.8 US miles per gallon (70.6 UK mpg), the 3008 1.5 BlueHDi is remarkably economical. This efficiency is further enhanced by Peugeot’s Start & Stop (S&S) system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it silently when the driver intends to move. This technology significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions in urban driving conditions. The engine also meets stringent Euro 6 d-TEMP emission standards, thanks to its advanced diesel common rail injection system, turbocharger with intercooler, and a particulate filter, ensuring cleaner operation in an era of increasing environmental awareness.

Design and Features: A Bold Statement in the Compact SUV Segment

The Peugeot 3008 II represented a radical departure in design from its predecessor. It embraced a modern, assertive SUV aesthetic that resonated strongly with consumers. The vehicle boasts a distinctive front fascia with sharp headlights and an upright grille, flowing into a sculpted body with prominent wheel arches. Its overall length of 175.08 inches (4447 mm), width of 72.48 inches (1841 mm), and height of 63.94 inches (1624 mm) give it a commanding presence without being overly cumbersome. The 105.31-inch (2675 mm) wheelbase contributes to a stable ride and a spacious cabin.

Inside, the 3008 II is renowned for its revolutionary “i-Cockpit” design, although specific details are not provided in the data, it’s a hallmark of this generation. This includes a small-diameter steering wheel, a configurable digital instrument cluster positioned above the steering wheel, and a central infotainment screen. The vehicle seats five occupants comfortably across two rows, accessible via five doors. The trunk space is generous, offering a minimum of 18.36 cubic feet (520 liters) with the rear seats up, expanding to a cavernous 52.34 cubic feet (1482 liters) when the rear seats are folded down, making it highly practical for families and cargo.

The chassis and suspension are designed for a comfortable yet engaging driving experience. It features an independent McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear uses a semi-independent setup with coil springs. Front ventilated disc brakes and rear disc brakes provide confident stopping power, assisted by ABS. The electric power steering system ensures light and precise control. With a ground clearance of 8.62 inches (219 mm), an approach angle of 20 degrees, and a departure angle of 29 degrees, the 3008 II offers more capability than many of its urban-focused rivals, allowing it to handle light off-road excursions or challenging urban obstacles with ease.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Peugeot 3008 II, and specifically the Peugeot 3008 II (Phase I, 2016) 1.5 BlueHDi (130 Hp) S&S variant, carved out a significant legacy for Peugeot. Its transformation from its first generation into a full-fledged, stylish SUV was a masterstroke, capturing the zeitgeist of the European automotive market’s shift towards crossovers. Winning the European Car of the Year award in 2017 underscored its innovative design, practical appeal, and overall excellence.

In its primary European market, the 3008 II competed fiercely with a host of established and new rivals. Key competitors included models such as the Nissan Qashqai, Renault Kadjar, Volkswagen Tiguan, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage. What set the 3008 apart was its bold, almost concept-car-like exterior design, coupled with its distinctively futuristic i-Cockpit interior and a strong emphasis on driving dynamics and ride comfort. The 1.5 BlueHDi engine, in particular, offered a compelling package of power, refinement, and exceptional fuel economy, appealing to a broad segment of buyers concerned with running costs and environmental impact, especially in countries with high diesel penetration.

Its historical significance lies in solidifying Peugeot’s position as a serious contender in the compact SUV segment, a market where French manufacturers had sometimes struggled to gain dominance against German and Asian rivals. The 3008 II demonstrated Peugeot’s capability to blend distinctive French design flair with robust engineering and advanced, efficient powertrains. It helped redefine the brand’s image, moving it towards a more premium and technologically advanced perception. The success of this generation paved the way for future Peugeot SUV offerings and influenced design language across the brand’s portfolio. Even after its production run for Phase I ended in 2020, its impact on the compact SUV landscape and on Peugeot’s brand trajectory remains evident. It stands as a testament to strategic redesign and engineering prowess in meeting evolving consumer demands.