2017 Peugeot 5008 SUV revealed

Second-generation 5008 adopts SUV body style, Australian introduction expected for mid-2017.

Considering the booming popularity of SUVs, it comes as no surprise that Peugeot has decided to take a leaf out of the Renault Espace's book and turn their 5008 people mover into a seven-seat SUV.

Set to make its public debut at the Paris motor show at the end of this month, the 5008 will become the brand's first seven-seat SUV model.

Like the second-generation 308 and 3008 SUV, and the Citroen C4 Picasso, the new 5008 utilises the PSA Group's new EMP2 platform, which has been stretched 165mm longer than the 3008, and 110mm wider than the 5008's van predecessor.

With an overall length of 4.64-metres, the 5008 is smaller than the likes of the Mazda CX-9 or Toyota Kluger, but instead it is similar in size to the upcoming Skoda Kodiaq - which will also make its debut at Paris - and the upcoming Volkswagen Tiguan Plus. Nevertheless with a wheelbase of 2.84-metres, Peugeot says that their new SUV is 'the most liveable of C-segment SUVs'.

Though Peugeot maintains that the 5008 is still a people-carrier, it comes kitted out with plenty of luxuries.

Looking like a beefier version of Peugeot's recently launched second-generation 3008, the 5008 bears the distinct profile and wears similar design cues, such as its rear gloss black strip and its signature claw LED rear lights that define it as part of Peugeot's SUV line-up.

It is the same story on the inside with the 5008 adopting a similar i-Cockpit dashboard design as the 3008. Its futuristically-styled minimalist design wraps around the driver, with a high-mounted 12.3-inch high-resolution instrument cluster and a tablet-like 8-inch centre touchscreen infotainment system being the centrepieces of the cabin.

Though its exterior shape might have changed drastically, the 5008 SUV adopts the same convenient seating arrangement of its predecessor, with the second row featuring three individually adjustable seats. In its five-seat configuration, Peugeot says that the 5008 offers the largest cargo capacity in its class, with 1,060-litres, more than 135-litres more than what its predecessor managed.

Third-row flexibility has been improved with the two separate rear seats now being removable. Peugeot says that while the third row of seats can be folded flat for increased cargo capacity, removing each of the two seats is made easy thanks to its weight of 'under 11kg' and single switch, and would free up an additional 53-litres of space.

Furthermore the front passenger seat can be folded down to accommodate especially long items of up to 3.2-metres.

Internationally, the 5008 will be offered with a range of Euro 6.1-compliant engines. For petrol options there are four available ranging from 96kW 1.2-litre to 118kW 1.6-litre turbocharged units, whereas six diesel variants ranging from 1.6-litre to 2-litre in displacement and power outputs of 74kW to 132kW are available.

Perhaps the most interesting feature of the 5008 is that it was designed to accommodate an electrically-assisted portable bicycle known as e-Bike eF01.

Though Peugeot maintains that the 5008 is still a people-carrier, it comes kitted out with plenty of luxuries such as a multi-point massage functions for the front seats, a FOCAL Premium Hi-Fi audio system, a large panoramic glass roof, and Mirror Screen functionality. According to Peugeot the 5008 also features a 3D-connected navigation system, though that is a feature that is yet to be confirmed for Australia.

Perhaps the most interesting feature of the 5008 is that it was designed to accommodate an electrically-assisted portable bicycle known as e-Bike eF01. The eF01 and the e-Kick electrically-assisted folding scooter can be charged from a mobile dock station that is integrated into the boot of the 5008. Fans of the early 1980s Honda City might find this feature familiar.

As for safety features, the 5008 features a wide range of standard and optional features such as Advanced Grip Control with Hill Assist Descent Control, AEB, Distance Alert, Active Lane Keeping Assistance, Driver Attention Warning, Smart Beam Assistance, Speed Sign Recognition and Speed Suggestion, Adaptive Cruise Control with stop feature, Active Blind Spot Monitoring, Park Assist and Visio Park 360-degree camera view.

Peugeot Australia is anticipating a mid-2017 introduction date for the 5008 here, with price and specification to be confirmed closer to its launch.

Is the 5008 more appealing as an SUV? Tell us what you think in the comments below.