Tour de force

Peugeot Philippines has been on a mission since the start of the year. Last January 2022, the company appointed a new Spanish distributor, Astara, which aims to rapidly expand the brand's business network in the country.

Part of the master plan is this Peugeot 5008, a seven-seater midsize crossover/SUV that received a facelift in the first month of 2022. It enters the SUV battle royale strong with its distinctive styling and advanced tech, taking aim at seven-seater SUV heavyweights such as the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

So, the question is does the Peugeot 5008 has what it takes to be a good alternative to the aforementioned models? Let's find out starting with the exterior. Out of the cars available in the seven-seater category, the 5008 is undoubtedly a standout. The frameless grille flanked by the brand's signature illuminated fang LED daytime running lights is a display of flawlessness.

Another signature design detail seen in the French seven-seater vehicle is found on the rear end with the full LED rear lamps with its 3D claw. I just like it when car brands have a design language that is reflected in their models as this gives me a strong sense of pride and certainty.

Looking at the side, you might notice that the 5008 has similarities with MPVs (multi-purpose vehicles), a type of vehicle represented by models such as the Toyota Avanza and Mitsubishi Xpander. If you prefer a rugged SUV side profile, you might not find it in Peugeot's entry. But for me, that doesn't take away the beauty of the entirety of the exterior.

Step inside the Peugeot 5008 and you are greeted by leather seats with orange contrast stitching. According to my passengers, this has been their favorite so far, excluding luxury-branded cars, of course. The reason they say that is the seamless integration of interior bits such as LED ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, a wireless charger, and gray cloth trims.

As for your driver, yours truly, the Peugeot i-Cockpit sure was an experience. This provided a driver-centric layout by facing the center console and the 10-inch infotainment touchscreen (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) to me. Not only does this give safer drives but a more immersive driving feel. Moreover, the flat-top, flat-bottom steering wheel helps me see the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster better. What attention to detail.

Powering the vehicle is a 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbo gasoline engine with 165 horsepower and 240N-m of torque. It is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. You can further enjoy the drive by activating the manual and sports modes on the quirky-looking gear shifter.

As executive as it looks, the 5008 drives like one too. The body roll, outside and engine noises, and transmission jerks are well-managed. Take this out at night and you are treated with the eye-pleasing ambient lighting and views from the panoramic sunroof.

Considering the price of P2,435,000, you get to own a seven-seater crossover/SUV that is arguably the best-looking in the competition. Sure, it doesn't have a 4×4 or diesel option. But the Peugeot 5008 displays the plushness and exclusivity that you might not find elsewhere.