Peugeot"s new 3008 Crossover option

Peugeot is the latest carmaker to seek out new opportunities in what is called the crossover sector. The new 3008 Crossover is positioned between SUV, MPV and hatchback models in the range. The concept is geared toward those drivers who spend a lot of time with outdoor pursuits but don"t necessarily want a full four-wheel-drive vehicle. The design of the 3008 combines a single-compartment body shape with elements borrowed from the world of the SUV. It has a lower tailgate, plunging side windows and raised driving position. The vehicle remains compact with an overall vehicle length of 4,365m, width of 2,113m and height of 1,639m. The driving position is different from the standard Peugeot models. The materials used for the dashboard, for instance, are higher quality. The standard 'multiflex" seat configuration can be converted at will to offer a flat floor from the lower tailgate to the fascia panel to house bulky objects. Access to the 3008 boot load space is made easy by the split tailgate. The boot area can easily be split as the floor has three adjustable positions. The load area has a constant width of 1,030mm and a capacity of 512 litres or 1,604 litres with the rear seats folded. Peugeot claims the design of the new 3008 has been geared to achieve a five-star rating under the strict new 2009 EuroNCAP standards. Six airbags are available combined with five three-point inertia reel seatbelts and an audible fasten seat belt warning system. The two outer rear seats are also fitted with Isofix child seat mountings. The Peugeot 3008 Crossover will be the PSA Group"s first vehicle to be equipped with diesel hybrid technology. The commercial launch of this four-wheel-drive Crossover is planned between now and 2011. Irish prices and specifications will be announced closer to the autumn launch of the car.