Renault Koleos Dynamique vs Peugeot 4008 Allure

The Koleos is a slightly bigger vehicle but its pricing is pretty close to the 4008's. The Dynamique has leather upholstery, 17-inch alloys, rake-adjustable rear seat backs, split tailgate, satnav, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, all-wheel drive, rear window blinds, privacy glass and much more.

The 4008 Allure is sold only as an all-wheel drive with CVT. It has a reversing camera and servicing costs are capped at $330 a year for three years. This model also has xenon headlights, leather seats, 18-inch alloys, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, multi-function steering wheel and more. Satnav adds $1495.

The Koleos is more svelte and dynamic-looking than its X-Trail twin. Interior materials are high quality and there are storage spots throughout. The fold-down tables on the backs of the front seats will be loved by parents of small children. Cargo space is 450 litres.

The 4008 uses the brand's current design language, which is centred on the stunning floating grille (as in the Peugeot 508). The interior has had a wave of the designer's wand with high-quality materials and beautiful backlighting. The rear seats are roomy and cargo space is 416 litres.

The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel produces 110kW and 320Nm (which only highlights the need for a diesel in the 4008) and is mated to a six-speed automatic. It is available in AWD guise, the drivetrain shared with the Nissan X-Trail as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance.

The sole engine for the 4008 is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol which makes 110kW/197Nm. Mated in Allure spec to a CVT, the 4008 consumes 8.1L/100km. Based on a Mitsubishi ASX, the 4008 has the same clever drive system, with default AWD, 2WD for dry roads and 4WD lock for low-grip conditions.

The previous model had a five-star ANCAP crash safety rating. The new one gets six airbags, load limiters on the front and rear seat belts and pre-tensioners on the fronts. In addition to all-wheel drive, there are traction and stability control, rear parking sensors and an alarm.

It hasn't yet been assessed by ANCAP but the 4008 has seven airbags, traction and stability control and, of course, all-wheel drive. All seat belts have pre-tensioners, there are three child restraint anchors and ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist.

The ride is skewed to a dynamic set-up rather than off -road. The suspension is firmer, but it still rolls a bit in slower corners. The light steering makes it easy to manoeuvre around town but it lacks feel. Superior torque gives it the edge over the 4008 on hills.

Peugeot worked hard on the drive characteristics. The ride is now more sporting but you can tackle a rough road with ease. The steering is well weighted and direct but the CVT takes some getting used to and can run away downhill (keep the brake covered).