The Kia Sportage Mk5 and Peugeot 3008 are two compelling options in the fiercely competitive family SUV segment. Both offer a blend of practicality, technology and distinctive styling that appeals to modern buyers. However, they take slightly different approaches in key areas.
The latest Sportage represents a bold step forward for Kia's design language, with its aggressive looks and sweeping lines creating real road presence. In contrast, the 3008 opts for a more curvaceous, coupe-inspired silhouette that prioritises style over ultimate practicality. This divergence in philosophies extends to their interiors and driving experiences too.
Kia Sportage Mk5 vs Peugeot 3008
Practicality
The Sportage offers superior practicality compared to the more style-focused 3008. It provides similar boot space ranging from 526-591 litres depending on the powertrain, versus 588 litres in the Peugeot but the Kia's squarer shape makes the load area more usable.
Both offer split-folding rear seats and adjustable boot floors, but rear headroom is tighter in the sloping-roofed 3008. The Sportage just edges it for rear legroom as well. Up front, both cars provide plenty of well-though out storage cubbies.
While the 3008 trails slightly for outright space, its cabin has an upmarket design and high-quality materials throughout. The Sportage's sensible layout and robust build can't quite match the same premium ambience.
Driving Impressions
On the road, the Sportage prioritises comfort and refinement over outright dynamism. The supple suspension deals well with bumps at higher speeds, though larger wheel options can make it fidgety around town. Body control is sound and the steering is nicely weighted, if lacking in feel.
The 3008 disappoints slightly versus its talented predecessor. The ride is firmer without being truly settled, and there's more body lean than before. The small steering wheel offers precise inputs but feels slightly disconnected from the front wheels.
Both cars offer hybrid powertrains. The Sportage's self-charging hybrid blends punchy performance with reasonable economy, while the 3008 PHEV promises a useful 55-mile electric range. However, the entry-level 3008 1.2 petrol engine feels underpowered and hesitant.
Technology and Equipment
Both the Sportage and 3008 come generously equipped with the latest tech and convenience features. The Kia's twin 12.3-inch curved displays look suitably modern, with crisp graphics and user-friendly menus. Wireless smartphone mirroring is standard too.
However, the 3008 takes the innovation further with its huge 21-inch curved infotainment touchscreen and configurable i-Toggles shortcut panel. It's an eye-catching and intuitive system, if sometimes lacking in responsiveness.
Advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring feature on higher trim levels of each vehicle. But the Peugeot's quirky i-Cockpit driving position may not suit all buyers.
Running Costs
Kia claims up to 54mpg for the Sportage's diesel variants, while the self-charging hybrid should return 40-45mpg in mixed driving. Fuel costs for the PHEV 3008 depend heavily on keeping the battery topped up for maximum electric driving.
In terms of warranty, Kia's 7-year/100,000-mile cover significantly outpoints Peugeot's 3-year/60,000-mile package. Insurance groups and servicing costs should be affordable for either model.
Verdict
The Kia Sportage Mk5 takes a more conventional approach as a practical, well-rounded family SUV. It's spacious, comfortable and loaded with technology, backed up by Kia's excellent warranty. The diverse engine range includes efficient hybrids too.
In contrast, the Peugeot 3008 leans into its distinctive coupe-SUV styling for buyers prioritising design flair over ultimate practicality. It counters the Sportage's rational appeal with a premium cabin ambience and cutting-edge infotainment. Just be aware of its firmer ride and occasionally hesitant powertrain.
So while both are highly competent all-rounders, the Sportage's versatility gives it a slight edge for families, while the 3008's boldness will resonate with style-conscious buyers.
