The new Peugeot 5008 departs from the MPV styling of the old model, instead, it’s chosen the SUV look that’s proven so irresistible to buyers, while inside you get the latest incarnation of Peugeot’s i-Cockpit design language.
Pros Looks interesting Interior is impressive for class Generous standard equipment
Cons Not that exciting to drive So-so practicality Top-spec models are
The new Peugeot 5008 represents an oh-so-Gallic salvo in the fight for buyers in the medium-to-large SUV segment. With its sharp design, sharper pricing and extensive equipment list, is it enough to lure buyers away from more mainstream models?
Pros Gorgeous interior that oozes premium Extensive array of included features Sharp styling Comfortable ride Spacious boot Oodles of torque from the 2.0-litre diesel
Cons Third row is best saved for short trips 1.6-litre petrol is not the punchiest unit Brand perception
The Audi RS Q3 Sportback is a fast SUV with a distinctive five-cylinder petrol engine and a lovely interior. The lower, lighter hatchback RS 3 will be even more fun to drive, mind you.A couple of things help the Audi RS Q3 Sportback stand out amongst performance SUVs – its sharp looks and that characterful five-cylinder engine. It just sounds better than the rest.
This latest addition to Audi Sport’s growing stable of RS models is also one part of a dual-pronged attack on the small performance SUV market. While the RS Q3 should appease those wanting a little extra headroom for rear passengers, the Sportback earns extra style points with its sloping rear end. The Sportback delivers the kind of assured handling we associate with the RS range, letting you make rapid point-to-point progress while remaining predictable at all times, if lacking in true driver engagement. The progressive steering rack doesn’t give much sense of what the front tyres are doing through corners, and there’s little playfulness to be found from the rear end when pushed. On the smoothest roads and the optional adaptive dampers set to their most comfortable, the Sportback is just about relaxed enough, but still jostles on rougher surfaces. Dynamic mode is a lot more brittle, picking up even the smallest of abrasions. Ride refinement is merely average for the class, though our test drive didn’t provide an opportunity to see what effect smaller 20in alloy wheels would have on comfort.
Audi's cheeky little SUV offers exactly what we expected from the tech-loving German automaker in a handsome and mostly practical package.
Pros Sharp styling, plentiful tech features, spunky driving demeanor.
Cons Tight rear quarters, noticeable turbo lag, a few cheap interior materials.
