Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4
It's not the first hybrid in the automotive world, but enthusiastic
fans hope that the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 has worked out its earlier
noise issues. To date, there isn't a lot of proof that a diesel/electric
hybrid will be more economical than a gas/electric hybrid, but
perhaps the 3008 is just a bit ahead of its time.
The engine that moves this European hybrid is a 2.0 liter 161bhp
turbo-diesel with a manual, robotized six-speed front-wheel
drive transmission. The powerful generator works to recharge
the hydride nickel-metal battery. The battery and 36bhp electric
motor are located in the back, and power the rear wheels.
This combination gives you effective four-wheel drive without
the use of propeller shafts, transfer boxes and mechanical system
differentials. You won't be doing much serious off-roading with
the 3008, but the low emissions should attract quite a few drivers.
The all-weather capabilities make it even more attractive.
The price tag on the diesel/hybrid 3008 will not attract a
lot of potential buyers, since the gas model 3008 is nearly
£10,000 cheaper. The diesel 3008 runs £26,995. In
addition, the Hybrid4 does provide extra power, but it also
carries 440 more pounds, and that's the same as having an option
to carry two passengers in the rear seat.
The Auto operating mode of the 3008 uses electric and diesel
power. Sport mode uses motor and engine modes for greater performance.
4X4 mode allows the motor and engine to operate similar to the
way they do in Sport mode, but the stop/start is not enabled.
In addition, the build-up of torque comes from the rear only,
to prevent slippage of the wheels.
ZEV mode allows the car to run on electric power for as long
as it can, and then it changes to Auto mode. You can auto-shift
between modes while moving, but there is a one to two-second
delay while the car sets up.
The 3008 is more refined than earlier prototypes, and you can
smoothly restart the diesel engine. The transition between internal
combustion and electric drive is also smoothly performed. You'll
find that the 3008 gearbox is smoother than many robotized rivals.
When you drive in Sport mode, it will be obvious that this
is indeed a performance vehicle, and it's easy to overtake slower
vehicles when it comes time to pass. The handling is nimble,
even though you'll notice the extra weight in the rear.
You will also be surprised, and pleasantly so, at the fun you'll
have driving the 3008, whether you are on or off-road. The steering
is exceptional, and makes up for the fact that you can feel
the vehicle systems reining in the back wheels.
The interior of the 3008 is spacious and light, and you can
load items through to the front with no problem. The instrumentation
will tell you that you're in an advanced hybrid, but the seats
are quite comfortable and the finishes are elegant in design.
Reviewers overall have been fairly unanimous in their determination
that the 3008 is a fun drive, but too expensive to allow it
to appeal to common drivers, without more incentives from the
government.
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