What's the difference?
The world is full of shock brand announcements.
Remember the time Coke suddenly changed its cola recipe? Or when Apple decided to take on Nokia with iPhone? Nobody saw those coming.
We all know how the latter turned out and even the former eventually became a marketing masterstroke.
Now here's another super-surprise – a German electric luxury SUV that’s actually comparatively inexpensive. And not stingily equipped. Yep, we’re talking about the iX1.
Based on the really rather impressive third-generation X1, it decisively undercuts similarly-specified rivals from Mercedes-Benz (EQA, EQB) and Genesis (GV60).
But is the Bavarian EV SUV worth paying that little bit extra for against (only very slightly) cheaper alternatives like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Tesla Model Y, Polestar 2 and Volvo XC40 Recharge?
Let’s see.
The new-gen Peugeot 5008 brings a streamlined line-up and a fresh hybrid powertrain, promising improved efficiency for this seven-seat mid-size SUV.
We’re family testing the flagship GT Premium Hybrid to see whether the updated model delivers enough substance to match its premium positioning - especially in a segment where value-packed rivals like the Chery Tiggo 8, Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail are hard to ignore.
BMW is a true EV pioneer, as the 2014 i3 and subsequent models prove. There’s never been one that we didn’t like. The only problem was that all were expensive. And at times, prohibitively so.
Astoundingly, the iX1 breaks that cycle, comparatively speaking, while impressing us with its design, quality, packaging, dynamics and equipment levels.
As it stands, the xDrive30 is one of the most convincing and best-value medium-sized luxury SUV EVs on the market right now.
Who’d have thought it from a BMW?
Despite its new mild-hybrid powertrain and generous list of premium features, the Peugeot 5008 GT Premium Hybrid doesn’t always hit the mark. It’s not a bad car. In fact, it’s comfortable, stylish, and well-equipped. But it sits in a highly competitive segment where some rivals offer more space, more power, or better value.
It’s not the most versatile seven-seater on the market, but it will suit families who only occasionally need that third row. And that’s the theme here. The 5008 is sufficient. It does most things well enough, but in a class full of standout options, it doesn’t quite push through to the front.