Motoring News
PEUGEOT 5008 GT SPORT
PEUGEOT 5008 GT SPORT
By ALISTAIR KENNEDY
Grand Touring is offered in its true meaning in the Peugeot 5008 GT Sport.
The 5008 is the largest of French carmaker Peugeot’s three SUV models ahead of the compact 2008 and the mid-sized 3008.
With its relatively long low profile and seven seats the 5008 is effectively a crossover between an SUV and a people mover. Indeed, from its debut in 2009 through until 2016 it was tagged as an MPV before switching to the more marketable SUV name-tag.
The current (second generation) model was released in 2017 with the current face lifted version arriving in early 2021.
The 5008 is aimed at the top end Japanese and Korean models although Peugeot is also keen to tackle the similarly-sized premium European SUVs such as Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. To this end only the high-specced GT and GT Sport variants have been brought here.
Our test vehicle was the GT Sport which was added to the range with the MY22 update in October 2021. It joins the 2008 GT Sport and 3008 GT Sport which were launched here earlier this year.
STYLING
The 5008 shares much of its styling with its smaller stablemate, the 3008. The standout feature in both vehicles is the eye-catching chequered grille which stretches seamlessly past the air intake and blends into the bodywork. Topping off the great looks are long thin vertical daytime running lights which flash when the doors are unlocked.
At the rear there are LED taillights, ‘3D lion claw’ brake lights and scrolling indicators. The GT Sport also gets puddle lights in the shape of the Peugeot Lion.
A panoramic sunroof is standard in the GT Sport and optional in the GT.
Wheel sizes are 18-inch with the GT and 19-inch on the GT Sport.
INTERIOR
The 5008 comes with Peugeot’s i-Cockpit system which combines a 10-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen; configurable multi-mode 12.3-inch instrument panel and a compact sports steering wheel which allows an unobstructed view of the controls for most drivers.
There are also neat aircraft-style fold-down tables on the back of the front seats.
The 5008 GT Sport has Nappa leather appointed upholstery (Alcantara in the GT), while both models get heated front seats and 8-way electronic adjustment and massage function for the driver, plus a panoramic opening glass sunroof as standard.
As is the norm, the rearmost seats are best suited to children.
With all seven seats in place the storage capacity is 237 litres. That expands to a maximum of 1670 litres with the third-row seats folded and 2150 litres with the second-row seats down and the third row removed.
The three centre-row bucket seats can be adjusted in various ways and there’s a real luxury feel when travelling there.
With the front passenger seatback folded the 5008 can to cater for long narrow items of up to 3.28 metres.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
Two engines are offered. The GT Sport has a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol with maximum power of 133 kW at 5500 rpm and torque of 260 Nm at a very low 1650 rpm.
The 5008 GT is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel with common-rail direct injection and develops 131 kW at 3750 rpm and 400 Nm at 2000 rpm.
Both petrol and diesel engines are mated to an eight-speed torque-converter automatic and both are front-wheel drive.
INFOTAINMENT
The 10-inch colour touchscreen sits in the centre of the dashboard and, very sensibly, is angled slightly towards the driver. Less sensible, in our opinion, is the need to adjust temperature and fan speed with multiple taps on the screen rather than with the much easier and safer knobs.
The various controls are of the piano key variety with a small audio volume knob on the far left.
Both 5008 models come with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; DAB radio; wireless smartphone charging; and 3D satellite navigation.
SAFETY
Both the 5008 GT and GT Sport come with a comprehensive list of safety features. This includes six airbags; electronic braking distribution; blind spot detection; emergency braking assistance: electronic stability programme; speed limit recognition and recommendation; adaptive cruise control; advanced driver attention alert; forward collision warning; lane keeping assistance; lane positioning assist; lane departure warning; road edge detection; autonomous emergency brake with low light cyclist and pedestrian detection; high beam assist; and Isofix child seat anchors on the outer rear seats.
One glaring omission is rear cross traffic alert, an important feature that is becoming standard in most vehicles and which we are increasingly relying upon.
Parking is helped by front and rear parking sensors; semi-autonomous parking assist; and 360-degree reversing and front cameras.
DRIVING
Our test car was the 5008 GT Sport priced at $65,670 plus on-road costs.
Access to the front seats is easy and they are large, comfortable and supportive with the added bonus of slide-out thigh support. The sunroof does infringe into headroom.
The turbo-petrol engine in the GT Sport is smooth and refined. If you’re looking for a bit more torque the slightly more expensive turbo-diesel GT model might be more suitable.
A highlight is the sports steering wheel which really adds to the drive experience.
Road holding is very good, though it’s obviously aimed more at the family wagon buyer than the sporty SUV segment. You can choose between several driving modes.
On good roads the 5008 was extremely smooth and quiet. Perfect for long distance cruising with the added bonus of relatively low fuel consumption.
On some rougher surfaces there was more noise than we anticipated, but it still felt stable and secure.
The cruise control stalk is awkwardly positioned below and behind the gear shift toggles on the steering column.
Fuel consumption in the turbo-petrol GT Sport that we tested is listed at a very optimistic 5.6 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged 7.6 L/100km which is still impressive for a relatively large vehicle.
SUMMING UP
Peugeot 5008 is a stylish, well-equipped and versatile seven-seat SUV. multi-purpose French vehicle at a price that should give food for thought to the makers of premium product rivals.
Peugeot has a long and distinguished history in Australia so it was disappointing to see it drop off significantly in recent years. Fortunately, both it and its French sibling, Citroen, have now joined the Subaru brand at Inchcape Australia. Now, some improved marketing push means that dealers will be keen to attract new sales so make sure you do some serious haggling.
RATINGS
Looks: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 8/10
Comfort: 9/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 8/10
AT A GLANCE
MODEL RANGE
5008 GT Sport 1.6-litre turbo-petrol: $65,657
5008 GT 2.0-litre turbo-diesel: $66,770
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Peugeot dealer for drive-away prices.
SPECIFICATIONS (Peugeot 5008 GT Sport 1.6-litre turbo-petrol five-door wagon)
ENGINE:
Capacity: 1.598 litres
Configuration: Four cylinders in line
Maximum Power: 133 kW @ 5500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 250 Nm @ 1650 rpm
Fuel Type: Petrol 95 RON
Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 5.6 L/100km
CO2 Emissions: 128 g/km
DRIVELINE: Eight-speed automatic
2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure
By Jeff Gibbs
The all-new 2025 Smart #5 electric SUV is set to revolutionise the way people experience the outdoors, combining cutting-edge electric technology with features designed for adventure. Created through a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely (Volvo’s parent company), the “hashtag five” is poised to change weekend getaways with a unique blend of off-road capability, luxury, and tech.
Power and Range At the heart of the Smart #5 is a massive 100kWh battery, offering an impressive range of more than 700 kilometres on a single charge. But this vehicle isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s equipped to power outdoor adventures. The Smart #5 can run a variety of appliances, including a fridge, movie projector, and a high-fidelity stereo, making it an ideal companion for camping trips and outdoor escapes.
Design and Off-Road Capability Sized similarly to a Subaru Forester, the Smart #5 is designed for mild off-road tasks with all-wheel-drive traction and ample ground clearance. For those looking to push further into the wild, an optional off-road pack draws inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, featuring practical additions like a fold-down ladder, rooftop cargo tray, and external storage for muddy or wet gear.
Luxurious Interior and Advanced Technology Inside, the Smart #5 offers a premium experience with a digital dashboard and two high-resolution AMOLED displays. The SUV also boasts an augmented reality head-up display, giving drivers enhanced navigation and information at a glance. Powered by a water-cooled computer processor, the system can run movies and video games, turning the car into an entertainment hub for remote locations.
2025 Smart #5 Interior
The vehicle’s heated seats come with a massage function and can fold flat to create a “king size” sleeping space — perfect for overnight stays, though likely not quite as large as a traditional mattress. Adding to the luxurious feel, the Sennheiser surround sound system provides immersive audio, while a cute electronic avatar acts as a digital assistant, similar to Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri.
Innovative Features for Outdoor Adventures One of the standout features is the built-in movie projector, which, combined with the climate-controlled cabin, offers a unique way to relax under the stars. The SUV’s robust electrical system also allows it to power various appliances, transforming campsites into high-tech getaways.
Launch and Market Plans Though pricing details have not been confirmed, industry expectations suggest the Smart #5 could approach the $100,000 mark, especially given its extensive features and capabilities. This places it above the smaller Smart #1 and Smart #3 models.
The brand’s decision to debut the model globally in Byron Bay, Australia, underscores its intent to bring the Smart #5 to the Australian market. After its initial release in China later this year, production for Australia is expected to begin in 2025, with journalists from Europe and Asia already traveling to see the model in person.
With its combination of eco-friendly electric power, innovative tech, and off-road capability, the 2025 Smart #5 promises to be a game-changer in the electric SUV market, catering to those who want to explore the outdoors without sacrificing comfort or modern conveniences.
For more motoring news, click here.
2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range
By Jeff Gibbs
The 2025 Audi e-tron GT has been officially revealed, showcasing a significant power boost, extended driving range, and updated styling. Set to arrive in European showrooms later this year, with Australian launch dates yet to be confirmed, the updated electric sedan offers cutting-edge performance and luxurious features.
The refreshed e-tron GT now includes two key variants: the S e-tron GT and the top-of-the-line RS e-tron GT Performance. Both models benefit from a technical overhaul, with the RS Performance boasting a staggering 680kW of power, making it the most powerful Audi road car to date. Powered by a new 97kWh battery, the e-tron GT offers up to 604km of driving range, a notable improvement thanks to new battery cell chemistry and recuperation capabilities.
Performance Highlights:
- The S e-tron GT delivers 500kW, an increase of 110kW over the previous base model, while the RS e-tron GT ramps up to 630kW. The top-tier RS e-tron GT Performance pushes output to 680kW, making it just shy of the 700kW figure from its Porsche Taycan Turbo S sibling.
- The 0-100km/h sprint has been cut to just 2.5 seconds in the RS Performance, while the S and RS variants clock in at 3.4 and 2.8 seconds, respectively.
- The upgraded battery system allows for 320kW DC fast charging, which can add 280km of range in just 10 minutes.
Mechanical and Technological Enhancements Audi has introduced a lighter rear motor and a new two-chamber adaptive air suspension system, providing a refined balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension system is shared with the Porsche Taycan, and it actively adjusts to enhance cornering and acceleration.
2025 Audi e-tron GT Interior
The braking system has also been overhauled, with larger steel brakes on the S e-tron GT, while the RS and RS Performance models come with tungsten carbide-coated or carbon-ceramic discs, respectively.
The RS Performance features a carbon-fibre roof, optional ‘carbon camouflage’ exterior trim, and a glass roof with liquid-crystal film, which can shift from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.
Interior and Styling Updates Inside, Audi has upgraded the cabin with a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable seats with massaging functions, and the use of eco-friendly materials like Dinamica suede and recycled Cascade fabric. Audi has also introduced fresh dashboard trim inlays and updated the digital instrument cluster with new displays for battery temperature and performance metrics.
On the exterior, the 2025 e-tron GT sports revised front bumpers, larger air intakes on the RS, and an optional black grille. It also debuts Audi’s new simplified four-ring logo, along with new 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels inspired by the 1991 Audi Avus concept car.
With these significant upgrades, Audi is positioning the 2025 e-tron GT as a high-performance electric sedan that combines luxury, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling power, solidifying its place as a strong competitor in the premium electric vehicle market.
For more motoring news, click here.
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