New 296bhp Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 revealed – near-Golf R figures for SUV

Peugeot has released details of two new hybrid powertrains that will be integrated into the 508 and 3008 model lines. This is Peugeot’s first use of a hybrid powertrain on its EMP2 platform, and will be available with up to 296bhp in the all-wheel-drive 3008 Hybrid4.

Comprised of a combination of PSA’s 197bhp turbocharged 1.6-litre PureTech petrol engine paired with two electric motors, combined the powertrain gives this 3008 a power rating of 296bhp and a 0-62mph time of just 6.5sec, some 2.4sec faster than the fastest current 3008 model.

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This new powertrain will not only dramatically improve performance, but also allow up to 30 miles of electric drive on the new WLTP cycle before the petrol engine kicks in. To achieve this range, Peugeot has fitted the 3008 with a 13.2kWh battery pack mounted ahead of the fuel tank, underneath the rear seats.

That battery pack feeds two electric motors, one mounted to the standard-fit eight-speed automatic transmission powering the front wheels, with a second motor, mounted on a redesigned multi-link rear suspension design, powering the rear wheels. This also makes the 3008 Hybrid4 the first all-wheel-drive 3008 model in the range, and will exclusively be available in top-spec GT trim. Despite the massive performance jump, Peugeot did not mention whether any chassis modifications were made, although we suspect that the extra weight will dull the standard 3008's surprisingly agile handling.

Able to be driven in two or all-wheel drive depending on the mode, this is the first example of the hybridisation capability that was engineered into Peugeot’s lightweight, modular EMP2 platform that also underpins the 308 and 508. 

Speaking of which, Peugeot’s attractive mid-sized 508 saloon and SW estate have also been given a hybrid powertrain, made up of a lesser 224bhp combination thanks to a lower-powered 1.6-litre petrol engine matched to a single electric motor also powering the front wheels. Peugeot has not confirmed whether the 508 will gain the 3008 Hybrid4’s more powerful set-up, but the 3008 will be available in a few months’ time with the lesser 224bhp hybrid drivetrain. Both models are able to be charged from a 6.6kW fast charger in less than two hours via a charge port on the car’s rear wing.

Available from autumn 2019, this is not Peugeot’s first attempt at hybridisation after the flawed diesel-electric 508 RXH, but with new developments made in both battery and electric motor tech, not to mention its more agreeable partnership with a petrol engine, the 296bhp 3008 is sure to be a curious performance flagship before a rumoured all-electric GTi is eventually revealed.