Peugeot 5008 II

As SUVs becoming the dominant species of the automotive world, surpassing minivans and tourers across the globe, the Peugeot that was once a minivan in the past, the 5008, has been transformed into a crossover utility vehicle in same way what happened to the Renault Espace. Because this is now a SUV, you won't be taking it to your nearest minivan society with your mates anymore because this is no longer a minivan anymore but in terms of making the grade, the new 5008 is a worthy contender in the war of seven-seaters.

2017 Peugeot 5008

No, you're not seeing things, ladies and gentlemen. This really is the new 5008, the 5008 that was used to be a minivan is now a crossover and this new model serves as the flagship SUV of the Peugeot family, whatever the heck it is. Peugeot says that the new 5008 promises to pursue the brand's move up-market strategy, to be an international success, and to become the leading benchmark C-segment large seven-seater SUV, although this crossover expects competition from other seven-seater SUVs from Asia, America, and Europe, so to try to up the game, the new 5008 comes ready with a wide-array of features that will swoon drivers and breadwinners alike.

2017 Peugeot 5008

2017 Peugeot 5008 interior

Back when it was a minivan, the previous 5008 looks nice to look at but now as an SUV, the new 5008 looks more like an enlarged 3008 or so they say. Either way, it's a great thing both the old and the new one had in common; they don't have sliding doors so who cares about it. Besides, van men who want a Peugeot with sliding door should go for the Traveller, the Combi range, and the Tepee range. Easier said than done, but this is getting off-topic right now because this is the Nouvelle SUV 5008 I'm talking about and let's investigate more about this new model because like I said, the new model is more like an extra-large version of the latest 3008 by the looks of it but on the plus side, the side view isn't as a letdown on the sidelines as the new 3008, so that's okay.

Inside, the new 5008 is all about technologically advanced and practical for drivers and breadwinners alike and with this new interior, it's almost enough to forget every seven-seater SUV you've been into, although being a seven seater gives you a lot of pros and cons based on personal experience. One for instance, the second-row seats which gives you plenty of sweet spots to be into until child seats would ruin them, forcing you to slip into the third row or not riding shotgun at all in case of situations like carrying stuff in the back, even if the back is now more spacious than the previous model and comes with a power liftgate inspired by the Ford Escape, which involves footwork under the rear bumper. Sounds more like personal experience to me but there is a chance that they might let you ride on the new 5008 just to flicker on the tech stuff offered on the dashboard or sticking on the sweet spot you know in the hopes of not landing you to the dreaded third-row seating but let's leave it anyway and move on.

2017 Peugeot 5008

Thanks to the new platform, the Peugeot 5008, despite its size, handles like a sedan. It can be either comfortable or enjoyable at the same time and this is a major improvement compared to the dynamics felt from the time the 5008 used to be a minivan, which is biblically awful by today's standards. That sounds positive for the new model but even though it's classified as a sport utility vehicle, there is no four-wheel drive present and its main excuse is its Advanced Grip Control feature that allows this car to handle tarmac, gravel, mud, sand, or snow, at the flick of the knob as well as the Hill Assist Descent Control.

Under the hood, the new 5008 SUV offers a choice of 1.2L PureTech, 1.6L THP (the most powerful in the normal range), 1.6L BlueHDi (the most fuel efficient in the range, mated with either a 6-speed manual or automatic), and a 2.0L BlueHDi (the most torque in the normal range). All of those engines are EURO 6 compliant.

One thing you should be aware of is the Driver Sport Pack that comes with a wide array of improvements to make the handling even sharper than before because while this makes the 5008 slightly more enjoyable, handling on a day-to-day basis is even more stressful than your desk job. It maybe the least of your problems but the GT version, powered by a 2.0L BlueHDi engine with 180 PS of power while mated to a 6-speed automatic, is what should you be worrying right now. While it promises to be a crossover that was designed for families and drivers alike, its sporty handling is what going to upset you in terms of comfort and even if you take advantage of all the luxury features in both the GT and the GT-Line variants, courtesy of the i-cockpit Amplify, you still feel like you're living in a motel rather than a fancy hotel downtown. The GT maybe the ultimate 5008 for now but don't get use to its title because things can get messy with this one, though.

To deal with today's traffic conditions, the new 5008 comes ready with a wide array of safety features such as Automatic Emergency Braking System (AEBS) and Distance Alert, Active Lane Departure warning system, Driver attention warning system, Peugeot Smartbeam Assistance, Speed sign recognition and speed suggestion, Adaptive Cruise Control with stop feature (ACC Stop), Active Blind Spot Monitoring system, Park Assist, and Visiopark 1 and 2.

Should you buy one? The new Peugeot 5008 starts at 26,700 Euros plus on-road costs, making one of the most competitively priced seven-seater SUVs in the market and you can really make a deal getting your hands on this new one. It's surprisingly ten grand less than its model crossover, the Renault Espace, the one that used to be an MPV until it becomes a crossover SUV.

Turning an MPV into an SUV is the harshest thing to do for most carmakers for numerous reasons we don't know and the 5008 is no exception to today's trends but despite being an SUV, its status of being a people-mover is still here and its handling is slightly even better than the old one, well save it on GT models. It really is a worthy contender in the crossover market.

Photo: Groupe PSA

Peugeot 3008 II

This is not deja vu, folks. Of course the name is the same as the old one but look closely that everything's all new inside out because Peugoet's medium-sized crossover, the 3008, has been regenerated with an all new look, all new interior, all new performance, and all new tech that will surely shape up the crossover competition.

2017 Peugeot 3008

So, what's it all about the new Peugeot 3008? First of all, let's take a look at the details before going deeper to its core as you can see, the new design is basically an improvement compared to the previous model. It's like a beefed up 308 hatchback after going to the fitness center to do some workout but while the front and back is basically nice to look at, the sidelines are a bit redundant and it needs a little class to bring out its alluring looks in order to swoon the customers.

2017 Peugeot 3008

That said, with the new exterior is almost a letdown on the sidelines, the interior is worth a redeemable one, almost, because with so many stuff around the inside, flickering one of these features to see how it works will take about half an hour before getting off and giving way to anyone who want to check out the interior. One word of warning, however, is because everything's high-tech, especially the touch screen sat-nav, the digital curiosity will almost scare away the speedo boys everywhere because, like most speedo boys feared, there is no radio or CD player to replace on. Just iPod connectivity that speedo boys find it complicated. Fact it folks, this is the future and in the future, radios are irreplaceable on cars like these.

Anyway, while the dashboard is not made for speedo boys many, the new interior is even more practical and more convenient than the last one and as a five-seater car that is fit for work, for groceries, for shopping, or whatever they want to do in their free time, the 3008 really knows how to double-checking listings one after another. Space-wise, thanks to the new platform implemented on it, it's even bigger than before and with the rear seats folded, it takes two office chairs laying under (and some other thrift store hauls) to fill it up. Well, as a theory.

2017 Peugeot 3008

Because it was utilized on the same new platform derived from the latest 308, the all new 3008 is more sharper and comfortable than the last one, although sportiness is isn't in this crossover's mind, especially when you go for the semi-sporty GT model, which comes with a 181PS 2.0L BlueHDi engine and a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Needless to say, with a 1.2L PureTech, 1.6 THP, 1.6 BlueHDi, and 2.0L BlueHDi engines available at the very start, choosing which engine to go for in terms of performance, efficiency, or both can be a pain in the brain cells but it can be somewhat an enjoyable customer experience because choices play a crucial part of buying a crossover like this.

Despite being an SUV, it's front-wheel drive only just like the original, meaning it's just another commoners' car on the city and when you take it off from the city streets to the grassy mountainside, its city car characteristic is still noticeable until you flicker the traction control switch that can handle mud, snow, or sand, which makes it barely an adventurous car while keeping its city car trait intact. It's like being a city boy taking a time out on the wooden village along with his family for a night.

The performance can be somewhat average for a crossover like this one but the tech is what goes around, comes around for the new 3008 and with the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems along with its Visio Park and Park Assist stuff, it's a prime example why tech is becoming a dominant force for cars like these and although very nice to accommodate for the commoners, the tech features will make speedo boys unhappy with it until they fiddle with the nuts and bolts of it.

2017 Peugeot 3008

So, should you buy one? The new 3008 starts at 25,900 Euros up to 41,650 Euros for the GT version. Sounds expensive compared to the Japanese-made crossovers but it's a competitive one because with all these features that revolutionized this new model, the all new 3008 is a crossover that will rise to the challenge on this category and everyone's looking forward to see how the new model unfolds.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

New Peugeot 308 GTi by Peugeot Sport

Peugeot's return to hot hatchery since the 208 GTi made the French carmaker to explore new heights with the arrival of the brand new 308 GTi, their most potent version of the second-generation Peugeot 308 hatchback. Would the VW Golf GTi had something to worry about?

2016 Peugeot 308 GTi

Generally, yes, because with the new 308 GTi, Peugeot managed to venture the hot hatch world with brave new heights because this is essentially the most powerful Peugeot hot hatch ever made and for some, this new hot hatch wants to draw inspiration from the legendary Peugeot 306 S16, the hatchback that set benchmarks for French hot hatches, but truth be told, it's a lot more than that.

It's powered by a 1.6L THP engine that delivers a much tangible 270HP of power output. With that kind of power output, it's an undeniable fact that this is much more powerful than the Golf GTi and the Ford Focus ST, but less than the ultimate Golf, the Golf R. Mated exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox, it does 0-100kph in less than six seconds and onwards to an electronically limited 250kph.

Either way, even though the 308 GTi has some big power under its small engine, the handling that has been the key point of hot hatches is still there. Thanks to the available Driver Sport Pack, the new GTi feels as livelier as Peugeot's past hot hatchbacks that dates back to the iconic 205 GTi, meaning it's a great car to drive on a track day and it doesn't matter if you're not concentrating. It maybe mild on the driving dynamics but it feels very accessible to handle and even if you're a track-shy rookie, it feels not so bad. However, while the GTi is focused to be a track weapon, driving on normal roads will have a different experience and because of its stiffened suspension, you may find driving one on the city streets to be a stressful experience, especially on heavy traffic.

Anyway, should you buy one? The new Peugeot 308 GTi by Peugeot Sport starts at 37,200 Euros, which sounds like a lot for a Peugeot but less expensive than the Golf R, which is not what you call a smart buy but either way, the 308 GTi by Peugeot Sport is the ideal hot hatch to drive on a track day and if you wouldn't mind the stiffened suspension that caused so much drama on the normal roads, it is a fantastic addition to your garage.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Gran Turismo 6: Peugeot Vision GT

In the distant past, Peugeot has been well known for creating sturdy cars like the 504 Break, sporty cars like the 205 GTi, and now, terrible cars like the 307 and the 407. Peugeot is all about changing their minds through the years and because of their unquestionable automobile history, the French carmaker decided to create an unquestionable concept car capable of unleashing its unquestionable potential.



This is the Peugeot Vision Gran Turismo, the latest entry of Gran Turismo 6's Vision Gran Turismo lineup of concept cars that are suitable in the world of Gran Turismo. It incorporates Peugeot's motorsport history into one unique package and it delivers unquestionable aerodynamics that generate powerful downforces directly through the body panels, reaching to a mere 1.04 meters.

This car has an uncanny performance because the 3.2L V6 turbo engine delivers 875PS of power and the same amount for weight, meaning it can deliver an unparalleled 1kg/ps weight-to-power ratio and a 0-100kph time of less than two seconds. Less than two seconds in a concept car made by the French!

Peugeot claims that this car has an ultra-direct steering but sadly, its handling is very sensitive so when you turn hard at high speeds, it tends to understeer without warning so you have to be very careful while trying to handle this car with precision. If you set it up right, it becomes much easier.



I managed to try this one in a Special Event held at the Tokyo R246 track and what am I doing is aiming for the Gold Target Time, knowing how good this car is. While plagued by the diabolical understeer at high speeds, the straight line speeds are unquestionable and having managed to survive the Peugeot VGT's unquestionable mobility and stability, I managed to clear the Gold Target Time and I did it in 1:29.559. Not the fastest I ever done, but this is proof that how good this Peugeot concept car is.



The Peugeot Vision Gran Turismo is one of the fastest-accelerating cars in Gran Turismo 6 but it requires precise driving skills to get this thing round corners due to its understeering issues. This car is one of the many proofs why Peugeot remains one of the most unquestionable carmakers in history because of its unquestionable history of making tough cars, sporty cars, and terrible cars.

Expect more cars coming at the Vision Gran Turismo range very soon!

Citroen C1 II

2015 Citroen C1

The Peugeot 108 has its own twin rival and even though they look different on the outside terms, the new Citroen C1 feels technically the same as the Peugeot 108 as examined before. As a matter of fact, both the Peugeot 108 and the new Citroen C1 were part of the Toyota-PSA triplets born from Kolin, Czech Republic, since the first ones. It's kinda more of a Japanese-French collaboration, don't you think?

Like the Peugeot 108, the Citroen C1 can be offered on either a three-door or five-door and can be fitted with a 1.0L e-VTi 68 Airdream or the 1.2L VTi 82 PureTech petrol engine. You can even opt in for the Airscape model, which comes with a canvas roof at the top as similar to the Peugeot 108's TOP variant.

2015 Citroen C1 interior

2015 Citroen C1 interior

Like the Peugeot 108, the Citroen C1 still comes with the same quality like you expect from budget compacts but it can be configurable by request. You can even have it with the 7-inch screen featuring Mirror Screen where our satnav will serve as the mirror of the compatible smartphone connected. I should warn you that when people go for the Airscape variant, because this is one of the city cars to drive in the summer holiday in Europe,  even when you close the roof off, you can expect some few winds slip through or the noise from within. Yes, that sounds way too familiar to you when you read anyone's first impressions because first impressions don't usually come impressed but when you get used to it, this city car deserves a lot of respect and a lot of love love love.

2015 Citroen C1

The 1.0L e-VTi 68 Airdream engine on the new C1 develops 68PS of power output and it's mated with a 5-speed manual. Even though it's not quite as quicker as the competition, it's one of the most fuel-efficient cars ever made because 26.3km/L is usually plenty for its fuel economy, although actual fuel mileage can vary, depending on your driving style.

As for the 1.2L VTi 82 PureTech petrol engine, developed by PSA Peugeot Citroen, this engine develops 82PS of power output, 23.3km/L of fuel economy, and 99g/km of CO2 emissions. That sounds a lot for a city car but even though these engines are not powerful enough to sneeze your way home, its pseudo McPherson front axle and a deformable rear beam can really add some smile all day long...unless if you're Grumpy and you know it.

2015 Citroen C1

In terms of pricing, the new C1 is more affordable than the 108 because while it starts at 10,150 Euros, the new Citroen C1 costs 9,950 Euros so can anyone hardly explain why this Citroen is way cheaper than its 108 twin? Anyone? Nope? Nope. No comment but surprisingly, the new model is now 200 Euros lower than the old C1.

So there it is, it's very difficult to distinguish which to choose these French city car twins because while the 108 is a high-quality city compact in its own right when well-equipped, the new C1 is much more of an affordable alternative and with so many choices to choose from, it takes guts to determine the winner.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Peugeot 108

2015 Peugeot 108

2014 is going to be the year of the superminis because the French are unleashing their new wave of superminis, those compact cars that look small in size but for their lack in size, they make up with their new blend of wit and attitude to appease the driving gods.

The new Peugeot 108 is the definite start to this year's trends and as far as I concerned, this new model is a direct replacement to the old 107, completing Peugeot's naming strategy that all good cars end with the eight as its third digit. One zero could refer to something city car-ish while two zeroes could refer to something sport utility-ish...well you get the idea but hey, Peugeot's new city car now sports the familiar design language that the whole Peugeot family tree are wearing. With this new design, the new 108 never looked even more attractive than ever and there's more because before customers driving their own 108, they can personalize it with a host of personalization methods. They can even opt in for a canvas roof variant, called the TOP, as well if they want to spend their summer driving with the top roof opened.

Personalized or not, from every angle you can see that the new 108 is worth the beauty of its own right and I have to say that this city car is a head turner. I'm pretty sure you'll never forget the first moment you saw one but because being a city car, it starts at a cheap 10,150 Euros for the 3-door version while the 5-door version starts at 10,650 Euros, that's about five hundred more for two extra doors but whatever.

2015 Peugeot 108

2015 Peugeot 108

On the inside, it's still has the same quality like you expect from budget compacts but with the right funding, you can provide the new 108's interior some gizmos suitable for your next trip. In top-of-the-line variants, you are welcomed with the 7-inch screen, which serves as the interface for the audio system, the trip computer and for vehicle settings. There's more too because with the new Mirror Screen, your satnav will serve as the mirror of the compatible smartphone connected. Quite a nifty gadget, right? But this is only fun when you're at a stop at the parking space, waiting for your friends. I know driving is all hard work and there's simply no time for your gizmo grabbers on the road. Hopefully, someone next to you would understand how it works and enjoying it on the go.

2015 Peugeot 108

The Peugeot 108 is available in either a 1.0L VTi, a 1.0L e-VTi or the new Puretech 1.2 VTi engine which delivers a class-leading CO2 emission of 99g/km. Most models do come with a 5-speed manual but if you go for the 1.0L VTi engine with 68PS of power output, a 5-speed automatic is optional. Yes, 68PS of power output is not what you call powerful but because it weighs 840kg, the power-to-weight ratio is around 12.35kg/PS. That engine would do a 0-100kph time of 14.3 seconds and a top speed just shy around 157kph so it's not what you called quick but thanks to the use of pseudo McPherson front axle and a deformable rear beam made from a shaped tube in the suspension setup, the handling is just jolly enough to put a smile on someone named Grumpy...barely.

2015 Peugeot 108

So...what should you go for? It might be best to go for the 1.0L model because while it maybe short on the power stakes, it should be enough to keep you smiling over and over and over and over until you're back at being grumpy. To avoid? The TOP with the canvas roof on it because even when you close the roof off, you can expect some few winds slip through or the noise from within. On the upshot, that canvas roof model is worth an accessory barely well spent.

The Peugeot 108 is the city car that just getting started with this whole revolution of little cars because while they maybe short in size, they're already big in their characteristics.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Second-generation Peugeot 308

The Peugeot 308 was once hailed by Top Gear as one of the worst cars in the history of the world aside from the FSO Polonez, the Mahindra jeep, the Ferrari Mondial, the F50, the Lancia Ypsilon, the Alfa GTV6, the Saab with the Sensonic gearbox, and the Lexus SC430. Well, the old Lexus SC430 beats them all when Top Gear called it THE WORST CAR IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD, but anyway, the 308 really is one of the sheer signs that Peugeot really made the worst cars for the worst drivers, except for the 208 GTi because it's a perfect car. So, what should Peugeot do with the 308? Throw away for good and replace with this...

2014 Peugeot 308

What I meant was when Peugeot asked to throw away the 308, they decided to create its replacement out of a brand new platform and utilize most of the cutting-edge technology they've invested and the result was this. The Peugeot 308, wait, what?! 308?! Well this is a brand new model but why they retained the 308 name?! Don't they think they should call it the 309 when most of the Peugeots advanced their last digit numbers in their full model changes? Well, never mind about that but the main reason was to avoid further confusions, Peugeot utilized their new naming scheme where the final digits are fixed: 8 for the mainstream range, and 1 for the models aimed at emerging countries.

That sounds convincing because this new naming scheme is bound to be one of the worst since when Acura decided that all models end with the X, Jaguar to had cars start with the X, Lincoln for the MK, Kia for the K, Citroen for the, well you get that idea but anyway, despite the same name, the brand new Peugeot 308 is starting to get even more promising than the old model but how promising is the second-generation 308?

It's Chapter 2 of the 308 saga so Peugeot celebrates it with a brand-spanking new look which appears to be so classy, it's like Karen Gillan mistaken for Bella Thorne and what's so unorthodox about the new model is the design language implied from the 508 and the 208 hatchback, the little bro of the new 308. I'm starting to like the new model's design more than the current Renault Clio or the Citroen DS4 or the Alfa Romeo Giulietta or a Ford Focus but don't get to excited because that's just the beginning.

2014 Peugeot 308 interior

The brand new interior of the brand new 308 is starting to get even more redeeming than the last one because in the last 308, it is as French as...French fries that lost its crispiness and messier than what it was. Let's just say it's a bit too oily for the old model but for the new model, it's now more aimed at today's yuppies rather than regular people, even your Ser Chief would like to drive one in his regular overalls on his leisure trip to the park or a country club or a restaurant. The best part about the new interior is the 9.7-inch touch-screen interface which is more addicting than the 208's and more importantly, the software's looking good. It now controls the climate control aside from the audio, the sat-nav, the communications, the telematics and whatever the driver needs. Yes, it's another one of the sheer signs that the new model's getting a bit sophisticated but there are some issues because the rear visibility's a bit small and the rear seats are as low as office supplies thrown underwater.

2014 Peugeot 308

The new 308 runs on a brand new platform, much like when VW used the MQB platform to their new Golf, but in here, the new EMP2 platform brings a massive 140kg drop in weight thanks to its compact dimensions and since it's lighter than the old one, the drivability of being a driver's car is worth redeemable because not only it's becoming as generous as Father Christmas, it's comfortable as well. In terms of engine choices, you can have either a 1.2L, a 1.2L turbo, a 1.6L turbo, a 1.6L diesel, or a 2.0L diesel engine but take note that the 1.6L turbo engine churns out 155PS of power while the 1.6L diesel has an impressive CO2 of 95-100g/km. That's just the tip of the iceberg because coming soon, Peugeot will inject this with a brand new BlueHDi engine with a record-breaking CO2 emissions of 82g/km, and also a hot version with 270PS of power. As for the pricing, it now costs under 17,800 Euros, making it one of the most reasonably priced hatchbacks in its class.

So for the verdict, the brand new 308 really is worth the redeemable one thanks to its range of engines, the lightweight bodywork, the ride, the comfort, and everything else that makes the new 308 stand out the crowd while there are so many issues regarding the new model as well as the naming that why it sticks to 308 rather than 309.

The new Peugeot 308, Concentree sur vos Sensations.

Available Colors: Blanc Banquise, Gris Huricane, Gris Moka, Noir Perla Nera, Gris Artense, Rouge Rubi, Gris Aluminium, Rich Oak, Dark Blue, and Blanc nacree.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Peugeot 208 XY

If you're a female and you had a name starts with either a Candace or a Bea or a Wendy, I might be thinking that the car I'm about talk is wrong about calling this one a car targeted for the females but Peugeot says it isn't. So, what is it about?

2014 Peugeot 208 XY

2014 Peugeot 208 XY

This is the XY, the Peugeot 208 XY and by the looks of it, think of the Peugeot 208 XY as the gender-swapped version of the hot Peugeot 208 GTi. Kinda like the gender-swapped episode of my favorite cartoon where there was a young girl and a talking cat out for adventures. I didn't like that episode though.

Anyway, the XY model doesn't seem to be quite obvious to look at but because this is more of a gender-swapped version of the 208 GTi, even though they're both available exclusively in three door variants, I don't think that there are many boys to like this car much like the gender-swapped episode of my favorite cartoon. Guess those who saw that episode kinda liked it but how likeable is the 208 XY?

2014 Peugeot 208 XY interior

It's like the normal 3-door version of the 208 but the XY gives the 208 a sense of poshness like for instance, this specially-designed grille, the XY badge at the back and the sides, the exclusive Purple Night color, the beige-colored dashboard on the interior and a choice of four seat colors especially the ones with Alcantara. Although not a fan of Alcantara because by the moment I touch those, it feels like a bathroom carpet every time I rubbed my hand on it gently. That's seems to be posh to me and then the touchscreen as seen on the normal 208 retains, making it a well-suited suitor with the computer geek in mind.

The added poshness on the 208 XY seems to be rather interesting but how about being a driver's car? Well, for starters it has the similar handling capabilities as the hot 208 GTi so by the time it faces a corner, it really sips it up like a Chinese soup where you'll add just one egg. Yummy.

And then there's the engine choices and for the XY model, it's available in either a 1.6L e-HDi in two configurations, and a tamed and underpowered version of the same 1.6L THP engine that powered the 208 GTi. When I said underpowered version, yep, that 1.6L THP engine develops 154bhp of power. It may not quite be an alternative to the hot 208 GTi but as a driver's car, it's worth noticing and enticing.

2014 Peugeot 208 XY

Love it or hate it, the 208 XY from Peugeot is worth an attractive city cruiser made for the fashionistas and for me, because I didn't like the gender-swapped episode of...well you know what show it is, I didn't like it. I like the way this car stays classy but not a lot because consider this, gender-swapped stuff is blatant and rubbish. Much better, don't just swap genders or feature some gender-swapped stuff for your own viewing pleasure, keep it that way. I would rather go for the 208 GTi than this because it's worth character-building than the XY and overall, it's more fun.

Available colors: Blanc Banquise, Spirit Grey, Noir Perla Nera, Dark Blue, and Purple Night.

PRICE LIST:
1,6L e-HDi FAP 92ch BVM5 - 21,900 Euros
1,6L e-HDi FAP 115ch BVM6 - 23,100 Euros
1,6L THP 155ch BVM6 - 22,050 Euros

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Peugeot 2008

Ever since both the Peugeot 208 and the Renault Clio IV came last year, it seems that these two really knows how to outdo themselves by showing off some of their additions. For high-performance versions, Renault launched a new generation Clio RS 200 with some EDC rubbishness according to hardcore Renault fans, which later got alienated by a 3-door only Peugeot 208 GTi. Now, for the FWD crossovers Peugeot wants to outdo the Clio-based Captur crossover with this car...

2014 Peugeot 2008

It's this; it's called the 2008 and the name is somewhat misleading to historians because even though this car is an all new model, the name of the car kinda feels like it was made in 2008. (Pun intended, whatever)

While the name is pun intended because it's the name which is somewhat a year in gesture, the 2008 was made to answer against the Renault Captur but I was wondering, is there something redeeming that the Renault Captur doesn't have?

Let's start on the outside because while the Captur is pretty much like a Clio on steroids, the 2008 is a nippy little crossover that has the looks of a chubby little girl who has her own TV show on the telly. Sorry about that but never mind about that because it doesn't look so bad though. It's not as bad as last year's 208 compact hatch but if you let that little hamster out of the window, chances are that he'll mock about the 2008's front view. Yeah, right. You'll be laughing at hamster mocking about its face, that's for sure.

2014 Peugeot 2008

The 2008 can be powered in either a 1.2L VTi, a 1.6L VTi, or a 1.6L e-HDi engine with three different configurations. Whatever floats your boat with either of these engines, there's nothing wrong with either of those but there are some few issues with those engine types. First of all, the 1.6L petrol engine that powers it is nothing more of a less powerful version of the engine found on the hot 208 GTi but despite that, it feels a bit well relaxed. It's like the La Salette Shrine in Silang, Cavite. Anyway, enough about that, another issue was its diesel engine because it adds a hundred kilograms to the weight, therefore it wasn't quite as agile as a hot hatch but if you're focusing on the carbon malarkey, it's not half bad.

As a crossover hatchback like the Captur, the 2008 is available only in front-wheel drive but for those who want to take it out for a bit of "adventure time" with you and me (obviously), more expensive versions come with Peugeot's Grip Control which works similar to the one I found on the Renault Scenic XMOD. It has four different modes; Snow, Off-Road, Sand, and ESP Off, and it can be switchable at the turn of the dial. It's like a Range Rover in so many ways and it's not quite bad for the adventurous type of person but because this is FF-only, it lacks the ruggedness of a normal SUV but let's just forget it.

2014 Peugeot 2008

So, those engine types were okay for the 2008 but as for the ride, it's not quite bad if you're careful and its Grip Control system is somewhat more of a traction control switch rather than being a terrain response you get in the Range Rover but what's it like to be on the inside? Well, this is just like the 208 compact, just, then there's room for five passengers, there's an extra rear space for passengers at the back, very practical boot space for luggage purposes, and the one thing that will redeem itself, the touch screen as seen on the 208. Yep, that addictive feature as seen on the 208 can be found on the more expensive versions and that's more like it for those who are up in the beat for music and anything else such as telematics and vice versa.

As for the pricing, the intro price for the 2008 is 15,200 Euros so that is well cheaper than the Renault Captur rival but you need to spend some extras for some optional extras on it. But still, it's a bargain for those who can't afford a Captur.

Available colors; Blanc Banquise, Noir Perla Nera, Gris Artense, Spirit Grey, Bleu Virtuel, Brun Makaha, Gris Platinum, and Blanc Nacre.

So, there we have it folks, the Peugeot 2008 can be an alternative for the Renault Captur because of its pricing but for adventurous use, it takes a man and a woman to be wise enough to use it on the urban jungle but not for any ridiculous purposes such as taking it to the extremes because this is not a worthy offroader thanks to the fact that it's available only in FWD, which is much like the Captur or the Scenic XMOD.

With Peugeot back in the Philippines, expect the 2008 to come here very very soon...

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Renaultsport Clio/Lutecia IV 200 EDC vs. Peugeot 208 GTi

2014 Renaultsport Clio 200 EDC

Welcome everyone to the brand new Renaultsport Clio RS 200 EDC. Renault claims it that this is the most technologically advanced Clio ever made for the enthusiast and by far out of being the most confusing Clio ever made even though it was based on the fourth-generation Clio (Lutecia in the Japanese market).

At first glance, it's no longer a three-door because Renault thrown the world a curve by making it available exclusively as a five-door model and that seems to be odd to be a hot hatchback that turns into a family-oriented machine. How did that happened? Five doors? That seems inappropriate for a car like this and for the worse of it, the hot-hatch favored 6-speed manual has officially dropped and replaced by a dual-clutch transmission called EDC that some say it's relatively quicker to shift than manuals. I know, that's how dual clutch transmissions work but seems to me that it's getting a bit more advanced than being an old-school hot hatchback suitable for the top dog.

There's also another transition to the new Clio because the naturally-aspirated 2.0L engine has now been thrown away for good and replaced with the 1.6L DIG TURBO engine that you may normally find it in the Nissan Juke but for the Renaultsport Clio though, this produces about 200PS of power and 240Nm of torque. 200PS? That's the same as the old 2.0L NA engine it replaces and that could only mean one thing...This new model ain't even BOVVERED. Zero to 100kph takes about 6.7 seconds and flatout in 225kph, meaning that this car is faster than the old model and despite the added doors, this car is 36kg lighter!

2014 Renaultsport Clio 200 EDC

Even with a downsized engine and the transition to a dual-clutch transmission that can be operated via paddle shifters, the new Clio RS 200 EDC really ain't even BOVVERED at all and the way it handles the corners, it sure knows how to corner very well. No matter the kind of corner is, this car ain't even bovvered. It kinda reminded me of a character that ain't even bothered. Face? Look? Bovvered? I AIN'T BOVVERED!!!! He he he he....That gets me all the time. And oh! Something tells me about this new model though. In a coming weeks, there's an app on the Renault's R-Link system and this app mimics the sound of several high-performance engines and plays them back via the car's own loud speakers. There were seven noises available while the three noises were made specifically for this model. There was the Alpine A110 noise which mimics the glory road of the legendary Alpine machine, the Renualt 8 Gordini that mimics the sound of the legendary Gordini, and then the Nissan GT-R noise that brings the sound of Godzilla to the Clio. That seems cool and you can even amuse your friends with that. Ho ho!

2014 Renaultsport Clio 200 EDC

Surprisingly though, this new Clio RS 200 EDC, just like its normal Clio brother, has all of the gadgets that you'll find it more addicting if you're a tech savvy kind of driver and with the new version of the R.S. MONITOR, this is a serious negotiator when you're using it on track days.

Overall, I can always forgive about those transitions, I'm starting to fall in love with this high-performance version. The Renault R-Link is what grabs my attention because I'm a tech-savvy kind of person and this made me addicted to it while thrashing around the new Clio RS EDC on the road or on track days. Guess I'm getting myself a Little Man Syndrome because that car made me turned into a kid in my mind every time I'm getting obsessed with this car.

However, if there's something even more addicting, I wonder, how come there's another hot hatch that is about as addicting as the new Clio RS? Talk to this hot hatch that I'm going to feature it...

2014 Peugeot 208 GTi

This new Peugeot 208 GTi seems to be somewhat an upperclassman's choice if he didn't like the Renault Clio RS EDC. Sure, it has the same 1.6L turbocharged engine as the Clio but unlike the Clio RS that has the dual-clutch, the 208 GTi's best served with an old-school 6-speed manual transmission. Unlike the Clio RS EDC, the 208 GTi is 3-door only and that's what I called it a proper hot hatchback. Amazingly though, while the Clio RS does 225kph, the 208 GTi does 230kph, that's about 5kph quicker than the Clio RS EDC!

The reason why the 208 GTi is quicker than the Clio RS EDC is because it's lighter. With a compact sizing, it seems that the term "small and light" is best describes it. Seems that the 208 GTi tries to win my heart better than the Clio RS EDC and you know what, this car says that it tries to capture the magic and the essence of the legendary 205 GTi, the hot hatch that made Peugeot jumped through a shot of fame in motorsports.

2014 Peugeot 208 GTi interior

By the moment you drive the 208 GTi, you'll get the sort of feeling that it tries to learn the moves that the 205 GTi does in the past decades. Because this car signals the return of the GTi marque on Peugeot and not to be confused on the VW GTi, this would be the trump card for PSA Peugeot-Citroen to get things right in the midst of poor performance in sales, shares, and marketing since the Euro Debt Crisis hit hard on European carmakers. However, can the new 208 GTi work? Spoilers...

2014 Peugeot 208 GTi

You've been given a choice; the Renault Clio RS 200 EDC is a tech-savvy high-performance road runner that is good enough for everyday use because of its five-door exclusivity and it's a track-eater that feels like here comes Pac-Man eating every dot in a maze. The 208 GTi from Peugeot though, it's a very serious machine made for the very serious enthusiast who sometimes his seriousness may wore off completely and become completely nuts when he got enslaved by its tech-savvy gadgetry and performance. So, the question is, which of these two French hot hatches is your pick? You decide...

Peugeot RCZ minor change

2013 Peugeot RCZ

2013 Peugeot RCZ interior

So, Peugeot's sports coupe, the RCZ, may have been more of looker but when it take par against an entry-level Audi TT or a Mini Cooper (not the S variant) on it, you should have seen the look on your face that when you saw that on Top Gear Korea two years ago, the RCZ is much quicker than the entry-level TT and the Mini.

One thing I didn't like about this car was its double bubble roof and thanks for being in such size, I can't even fit myself at the rear seats. I would bump my head from fitting myself in it. Being a 2+2 sports coupe, it would be better to have two people fit inside because the rear seats have little legroom on it, unless you are sitting on it instead at the front passenger seat.

Anyway, for this minor change, the new RCZ is getting more of an emotional feast rather than being just a nuisance to the city streets. Thing is though, that horrible face of the RCZ when it first came in 2010 is now changed and whoa! Check this baby out! That fresh new face of the RCZ is looking a bit even more sexier than a high-school girl in a body of a 25-year-old supermodel. Welcome to the choose-your-poison swimming club cafe! He he he...

While the new exterior look of the RCZ's minor change has the appeal of a high-school girl in a body of a 25-year-old supermodel, the interior is pretty much the same and because it still has this rubbish double-bubble roof, I still have the hassle of fitting myself at the rear seats. Well, I could just forget about the rear seats anyway because the number of people you can fit on this 2+2 seater RCZ was only two. What's the use with those rear seats? Well, you can make patong-patong with your date's shopping bags or her purse or your personal stuff, whatever. He he he... Maybe unless if I can seat on those rear seats while the front passenger seat has been folded for a while but it would bump my head trying to fit myself in...Oh boy....

Engine choices? Let's have a look...

• 1.6-litre THP 200; 147kW (200bhp) Euro 5, 275Nm, 6-speed manual - CO2: 155g/km and 42.1mpg (6.7 l/100 km)
• 2.0-litre HDi 163 FAP; 120kW (163bhp) Euro 5, 340Nm, 6-speed manual - CO2: 139g/km and 53.2mpg (5.3 l/100 km)
• 1.6-litre THP 156 manual; 115kW (156bhp) Euro 5, 240Nm, 6-speed manual - CO2: 149g/km and 44.1mpg (6.4 l/100 km)
• 1.6-litre THP 156 automatic; 115kW (156bhp) Euro 5, 240Nm, 6-speed automatic - CO2: 168g/km and 38.6mpg (7.3 l/00 km)

Color Choices?

• Blanc Opale
• Noir Perla Nera
• Gris Haria
• Bleu Tuanake
• Gris Sidobre
• Brun Guaranja
• Rouge Erythree
• Blanc Nacre

Prices?

• 1,6L THP 155ch BVM6 - 29,900 Euros
• 1,6L THP 155ch BVA6 - 31,100 Euros
• 1,6L THP 200ch BVM6 - 32,500 Euros
• 2,0L HDi FAP 160ch BVM6 - 32,500 Euros

2013 Peugeot RCZ

Well, that really clears it up but it seems that Peugeot reworked the RCZ's suspension a little bit further. The ride height's been lowered, the center of gravity's been lowered, widened track and when I get over it, the reworked suspension's brewed like mild coffee. It's getting milder and milder, making it easy enough to get through even if you're not concentrating. I have to say that for a school girl with the body of a supermodel, that new RCZ's really know how to memorize The Frog poem without spilling a cup of mild coffee that I bought from Starbucks'. Well, isn't that wizard! Sadly, I'm afraid that is not sophisticated wizardry applied, that's old-fashioned Peugeot goodness. Despite the gearbox being too rubbish, the handling wasn't quite bad and it's not that desperately impractical. 

If that wasn't put you off, it seems that Peugeot is planning an even more powerful version of the RCZ, which will be introduced to the range at the end of 2013.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Peugeot 4008

Some say this is the Mitsubishi RVR but it isn't. Its the Mitsubishi RVR's French cousins; the Peugeot 4008 and the Citroen C4 Aircross. This isn't the first time the French carmakers using underpinnings from Mitsubishi. Back in 2007, PSA Peugeot-Citroen collaborated with Mitsubishi Motors for their own versions of the Mitsubishi Outlander crossover known as the Peugeot 4007 and the Citroen C-Crosser. In 2010, they did it again by turning the all-electric Mitsubishi i MiEV into a Peugeot iOn and the Citroen C-Zero. The Citroen C4 Aircross and the Peugeot 4008 are somewhat to be the third difficult album about a partnership between PSA Peugeot-Citroen and Mitsubishi Motors.

2013 Peugeot 4008

2013 Peugeot 4008

This Peugeot equivalent of the Mitsubishi RVR, the 4008, is the better looking of the triplets. It's just as better looking than the C4 Aircross and the RVR, just, it's much more fun to see than looking at a Scottish actress in her black Mizuno racing swimwear, and it doesn't have a petrol engine like the Citroen Aircross. This 4008 is the thinking man's crossover, a smaller brother to the Peugeot 3008 crossover which gives them some choices for Peugeot's crossover lineup consists of the 4008, the 3008, and the new 508 RXH. Peugeot's design DNA really perfected the 4008's credentials and judging by the way it looks, it's just right. This is just like a young woman in her Mizuno racing swimwear armed to the teeth with her P90, a Five-seveN, combat knife, and a dose of stun grenades. That's why I like this 4008's exterior because it's very feisty to look at.

2013 Peugeot 4008 interior

The interior is just RVR-ish because you would expect the Mitsubishi-favorite Rockford Fosgate audio and navigation system, an optional panoramic roof, seating for five, foldable rear seats, and that's about it. Nothing's different when it comes to the 4008's interior because, again, this is just a Mitsubishi RVR in Peugeot's clothing.

2013 Peugeot 4008

Unlike the Citroen C4 Aircross, which has a 1.6i petrol engine, an HDi 115 diesel, and the HDi 150 diesel engine, the new Peugeot 4008 has two variants such as 1.6L HDi FAP 115ch BVM6 and a 1.8L HDi FAP 150ch BVM6. That's right. There is no petrol engine available on the 4008, serving this as a major difference. You can also expect the Drive Mode Selector, which provides the driver three different modes to choose from such as 2WD for better fuel economy, 4WD Auto for traction, and 4WD Lock where you want to take it on tarmac, gravel, and snow, even in the rain.

Available exterior colors are Blanc Antartique, Gris Cool Silver, Noir Perle, Gris Thorium, and White Pearl.

My comment:

It's amazing that the Peugeot 4008 is much more better looking than the Mitsubishi RVR and the Citroen C4 Aircross even though they're on the same platform and having the same interior look. I can't deny that the 4008 is a better looking compact crossover, a proper Nippon-French cooperation since...ermmm...ever. Sadly, I think that the partnership between PSA Peugeot-Citroen and Mitsubishi Motors' a bit on a problem because PSA Peugeot-Citroen found a new partner, which is General Motors. The 4008, which is one of the PSA-Mitsubishi co-op, won't be available as a right-hand drive and sadly, the 4008 is NOT coming in United Kingdom. Sorry...

Photo: PSA Peugeot-Citroen

Peugeot 508 RXH

2013 Peugeot 508 RXH

2013 Peugeot 508 RXH interior

Using the technology learned from the 3008 HYbrid4, which is dubbed as the world's first diesel-hybrid engine, the 508 RXH continues this new trend that sends the rivalry between diesel and hybrid to a screeching halt and into their joint custody.

Although, it uses the 508 SW as its basis but with added aesthetics to provide its robust and feisty character lines, the 508 RXH was made for those who are adventurous enough to travel around the world but caring about the environment. Under the hood was the 2.0 l HDi FAP diesel engine that produces 120 kW (163 bhp) but with the electric motor active, it generates 147 kW (200bhp) of power. Up to 300 Nm of torque is delivered to the front wheels by the HDi diesel unit and up to 200 Nm to the rear wheels with the electric motor.

Thanks to its HYbrid4 technology, this provides the driver with four unique drive modes such as Zero Emission Vehicle, 4WD, Sport, and Auto. In ZEV mode, the 508 RXH provides quiet operation and zero emissions for eco driving. Put it on 4WD mode, and the RXH would go anywhere from tarmac, gravel, and snow. And in Sport mode, it makes the RXH more agile on the corners. The HYbrid4 technology provides 67.2 mpg of combined fuel economy and CO2 emissions of less than 109 g/km. The only available transmission was a 6-speed paddle shift transmission.

Available colors are Blanc Banquise, Gris Thorium, Noir Perla Nera, gris Haria, Brun Calern, and Blanc Nacre.

My comment:
Can the 508 RXH be an eco car that can go offroading and be kinder to the environment? PSA Peugeot Citroen says yes and with the teachings from the 3008 HYbrid4, the 508 RXH continues the trend of uniting diesel and hybrid in today's standards. This is something that only PSA Peugeot Citroen's been capable of since the 3008 HYbrid4 and the Citroen DS5.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Peugeot 208

It maybe somewhat undignified as a direct replacement to the aging 207 but the brand new Peugeot 208 is all about letting your body drive away from your boring everyday moments. This is how you want to let your body out and go through bigger and better things. It's available in 3-door and 5-door models.

2013 Peugeot 208

The design of the Peugeot 208 derived from Peugeot's new design DNA first applied on the 508 and the 308 minor change. This provides more charisma and more flair but because this is French, it's somewhat too quirky to look at it. Hey, it's France and quirky brilliance is their design taste. What I'm looking up now is a design that is truly Peugeot identity that will stand out the rest and the new 208 progresses it even further.

2013 Peugeot 208 interior

On the interior, it's all about being luxurious but the best part of the 208's interior was it's iPad-like touch screen. Last year, I was amazed by having fun with the iPod-style "touch panel audio" on the third-generation Suzuki MR Wagon but now, the Peugeot 208, the iPad-style touch screen is much better to play with than the MR Wagon's "touch panel audio". This feature provides me some access to the following features such as radio, Bluetooth hands-free kit or playing music files via a USB connection or audio streaming. It also has access to reasonably priced navigation, which is less than 500 euros, placing it in a very competitive position in the motor vehicle domain of on-board navigation systems. Guess I have found myself my new companion...

The Peugeot 208 has a list of diesel engines available;

- 1.4l HDi PEF 50 kW (68 hp), 160 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox; CO2: 98 g/km
- 1.4l e-HDi PEF 50 kW (68 hp),160 Nm,5-speed piloted gearbox,Stop & Start; CO2: 87 g/km
- 1.6 l e-HDi PEF 68 kW (92 hp), 230 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox, Stop & Start; CO2: 98 g/km
- 1.6 l e-HDi PEF 68 kW (92 hp), 230 Nm, 6-speed piloted gearbox, Stop & Start; CO2: 98 g/km
- 1.6l e-HDi PEF 84 kW (115 hp), 270/285 Nm, 6-speed manual gearbox, Stop & Start; CO2: 99 g/km

It also has a list of gasoline engines available;

- 1.0 l VTi 50 kW (68 hp); 95 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox; 99 g/km
- 1.2 l VTi 60 kW (82 hp); 118 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox; 104 g/km
- 1.4 l VTi 70 kW (95 hp); 136 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox: 129 g/km
- 1.6 l VTi 88 kW (120 hp); 160 Nm, 5-speed manual gearbox: 134 g/km
- 1.6 l THP 115 kW (156 hp), 240/260 Nm, 6-speed manual gearbox; CO2: 135 g/km

Part of this whole downsizing trend is the introduction of the new generation of 3-cylinder engines designed by PSA Peugeot Citroën Group and produced at its Trémery factory in France. Those 1.0L VTi and 1.2L VTi variants of the new 208 provide 99 g/km and 104 g/km of CO2. It's very eco though...

The 208 comes with numerous features for safety such as ESP, ASR (traction control), CDS (stability control), EBA (emergency braking assistance) and EBFD (electronic brake force distribution). This also comes with Peugeot Connect SOS and Peugeot Connect Assistance services free of charge and with no time limit. Bear that in mind that Peugeot Connect SOS, currently available in 10 European countries and in more than 600,000 Peugeot vehicles, permits location of the vehicle and dispatching of the appropriate emergency services in the event of an incident.

Four variants are offered; Access, Active, Allure, and Feline, with each different engine types, features, and options offered. What's more, it comes with nine exterior colors such as Blanc Banquise, Gris Shark, Blossom Grey, Spirit Grey, Bleu Virtuel, Rouge Noir, Rouge Erythrée, Noir Obsidien, and Gris Aluminium.

My comment:
Guess this brand new Peugeot 208 won my heart with its cool touch screen feature that turns out this is much better to play with than the MR Wagon's Touch Panel Audio. This is the only feature I really love to play with. Anyway, back to the 208, the quirky Peugeot design DNA really flourished this new age premium compact car to new and exciting ways to let yourself run free and do whatever he/she likes. If I have one, guess I should start playing with this...

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen