Peugeot 5008

Peugeot’s third-generation family hauler braves the seven-seat class with hybrid power and new interior tech The new Peugeot 5008 is significant for many reasons, particularly to its maker.You can have it as a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid or an electric car, which means it's the first seven-seater from Peugeot to make use of such powertrains.Since the PHEV powertrain won't be available until early next year and because Peugeot expects the hybrid to be the best-seller, this review will focus on the latter. We've reviewed the electric e-5008 separately.While far from a halo product, the 5008's intention is to steal sales from a section of the market that for years was dominated by MPVs but is now populated by SUVs. It comes nipping at the heels of the Dacia Jogger, Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe, and you could even pitch it against passenger vans like the Volkswagen Multivan.At any rate, the 5008 wants to make a case for itself with a spacious and practical interior, sharp styling, decent driving dynamics, a generous standard equipment list, and, of course, efficient engines.In which case, how does it stand up against a growing market? Will its unique styling and refreshed image be enough to tempt buyers away from rival seven-seaters?