What's the difference?
Peugeot has dropped its traditional petrol and PHEV options for a new mild-hybrid system in the next-generation 3008.
We’re testing the flagship GT Premium Hybrid, which brings fresh styling, upgraded tech and a premium cabin into one of the most competitive SUV segments, but is it enough to stand out?
Smart is back.
Not with the classic ForTwo two-seater city car, oddball four-seater ForFour hatch or dinky Roadster targa top. Those were yesterday’s cars.
Today, Smart – as a 50/50 joint-venture between Germany’s Mercedes-Benz (the brand’s originator) and China’s Geely – is all about SUVs. Electric SUVs.
The boxy #1 (pronounced “hashtag-one”) is a small SUV and the sleeker #3 is the coupe-esque performance crossover version. Both are made in China and use Geely technologies.
We take a long, hard look at the range-topping #3 Brabus, the speediest, sexiest and exxiest of the lot. Let’s go.
The new Peugeot 3008 GT Premium Hybrid might not be the most spacious SUV for passengers, but it makes up for it with ample boot space and a standout design. It’s fresh-faced, interesting and packed with comfort features that elevate the everyday driving experience.
Is it expensive? Absolutely. But it also delivers a genuinely premium cabin that many rivals can’t match, along with refined on-road manners and efficiency that make it a pleasure to drive.
It doesn’t hit every note perfectly but there’s definitely a melody here worth listening to.
The #3 Brabus is very nearly one of the great bargains of 2024, with the sort of style, luxury, features, performance and grip you’d expect from the much-more-expensive GLA AMG 45. It’s that good.
What would make it great is a sunblock for the hot glass roof on a sunny day, Australian road tuning for the infuriating ADAS tech and a revised steering tune that didn’t make it feel inconsistent at times.
See past these, though, and the #3 Brabus exceeds expectations.
We’re glad Smart is back.