What's the difference?
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.
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.
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.
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.