Peugeot E-5008 Review: The Electric 7-Seater Revolution
Electric vehicles (EVs) are taking the automotive world by storm, but there’s one category that’s been left behind in the electrification race: seven-seater family cars. Thankfully, Peugeot has stepped in to fill this gap with the Peugeot E-5008, an all-electric SUV that promises to deliver practicality, comfort, and versatility for families. Based on the latest developments in EV technology and design, the E-5008 is here to prove that electrification isn’t just for compact cars and sporty SUVs.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll take you through the E-5008’s design, features, driving dynamics, and how it stacks up against competitors in the market. With detailed insights into what makes this electric SUV stand out, you’ll discover why the Peugeot E-5008 might just be the best electric 7-seater available today.
A Quick Overview of the Peugeot E-5008
The Peugeot E-5008 is part of a broader family of powertrain options for this model. While the lineup includes mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, our focus is on the all-electric E-5008. This model comes with a 73 kWh battery pack and offers front-wheel drive (FWD). Here’s the headline spec:
- Range: Up to 311 miles (WLTP).
- Charging Speed: Rapid charging up to 160 kW, adding 62 miles in just 10 minutes.
- Seating: Standard 7-seater layout.
- Price: Starting at £49,000, rising to £52,200 for the GT trim.
With future upgrades, including a four-wheel-drive variant and a long-range model with over 400 miles of range on the horizon, Peugeot is clearly planning to cement its place in this niche segment.
Design and Practicality: A Family-Friendly Approach
Peugeot has clearly prioritized space and practicality with the E-5008. At 4.8 meters long, it’s comparable to rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq and Tesla Model Y, but it’s significantly more compact than larger competitors like the Kia EV9. Despite its size, Peugeot has made excellent use of every inch, creating a cabin that’s perfect for families.
7-Seater Configuration
One of the standout features of the E-5008 is its standard 7-seater layout. The rear seats are manual but easy to operate, allowing you to configure the space based on your needs. Although adults won’t want to spend hours in the third row, the seats are perfectly fine for short trips or children.
Key points about the rear seating experience:
- Middle-row seats slide and recline in a 60/40 split, giving you flexibility for passengers and cargo.
- The third row lacks air-conditioning vents, which might be a downside for families with pets or kids on hot days.
- No ISOFIX mounts in the third row—a notable change from the previous model that had three individual ISOFIX-equipped seats.
Cargo Space and Clever Storage
With all seven seats in use, the E-5008 offers a surprising amount of storage, including a boot cubby for charging cables and other small items. Folding down the rear seats transforms the boot into a massive cargo space, perfect for road trips or hauling sports equipment.
Peugeot’s clever touches include a flat load floor and minimal load lip, making it easy to load and unload heavy items. It’s these small details that set the E-5008 apart from competitors like the Tesla Model Y or Mercedes EQB.
Interior and Technology: A High-Tech Cabin
Stepping inside the E-5008, you’re greeted by Peugeot’s signature i-Cockpit, which blends a futuristic design with practical functionality. The cabin feels premium and smart, thanks to high-quality materials and thoughtful ergonomics.
Infotainment and Controls
- The E-5008 features a large, curved touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
- A compact steering wheel provides a unique driving position, though it might take some time to get used to.
- Ambient lighting and a high-tech dashboard design create a sense of modern luxury, even at the entry-level trim.
Passenger Comfort
The front seats are spacious and well-padded, making long journeys comfortable. Passengers in the second row get individual climate controls and vents, ensuring everyone stays cool or warm as needed. Peugeot’s decision to replace the old three individual seats with wider, more comfortable ones might disappoint some buyers, but it aligns with customer feedback for a more SUV-like feel.
Performance and Driving Experience
The E-5008 isn’t designed to be a sporty SUV, but that’s not what most families are looking for in a seven-seater. It’s built for comfort and practicality, and it excels in those areas.
Handling and Ride Comfort
With a 2.2-ton curb weight, the E-5008 feels solid on the road. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, though the large 20-inch wheels on the GT trim can make the ride a bit harsher over uneven surfaces. Opting for the 19-inch wheels might provide a smoother experience.
Acceleration and Power
- 0-62 mph in 9.7 seconds—not the fastest, but adequate for daily driving.
- A four-wheel-drive version with more power is expected next year, which should appeal to buyers seeking better performance.
Brake Regeneration and Eco Features
Peugeot offers three levels of brake regeneration, allowing drivers to choose their preferred balance of efficiency and coasting. However, there’s no one-pedal driving mode, which might disappoint some EV enthusiasts.
Real-World Range and Charging
While the official range is 311 miles, real-world conditions will likely see the E-5008 achieving between 250 and 300 miles, depending on driving style and weather. This range is still competitive for its class, and the fast charging capability means you won’t spend too long at charging stations.
Charging highlights:
- Rapid charging adds 62 miles in 10 minutes or takes the battery from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.
- A factory-fit tow bar is available, supporting bike racks or small trailers.
Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The E-5008 sits in a small but growing segment of electric seven-seaters. Here’s how it compares to its main rivals:
Model | Price Range | Range (WLTP) | Third-Row Comfort | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
Peugeot E-5008 | £49,000–£52,200 | 311 miles | Good for short trips | Clever storage, flexible layout |
Tesla Model Y | From £55,000 | 330 miles | Limited space | Tech-focused interior |
Kia EV9 | £65,000+ | 336 miles | Excellent, but expensive | Luxury features, large size |
Mercedes EQB | From £54,000 | 260 miles | Compact third row | Premium build quality |
The Tesla Model Y offers a longer range and advanced tech, but it’s pricier and less spacious in the third row. The Kia EV9 provides unmatched comfort and space, but its size and cost might deter some buyers. The Mercedes EQB, while luxurious, is smaller and has a lower range. This leaves the E-5008 as a balanced and affordable option for families looking to go electric.
Final Thoughts: The Best Electric 7-Seater Yet?
Peugeot has nailed the formula with the E-5008, combining practicality, style, and affordability in a segment that’s crying out for more options. While it’s not perfect—the lack of third-row air vents and ISOFIX points might be dealbreakers for some—it offers enough to make up for these shortcomings.
With its versatile seating, intuitive tech, and thoughtful design, the Peugeot E-5008 is a standout choice for families looking to embrace electric mobility. Whether you’re planning road trips, shuttling kids to school, or simply need a reliable all-rounder, the E-5008 deserves serious consideration.
Why the Peugeot E-5008 Deserves Your Attention
- Best-in-class practicality: Ideal for families with its flexible seating and ample storage.
- Competitive pricing: Significantly undercuts larger rivals like the Kia EV9.
- Electric-first design: Combines modern tech with real-world usability.
Peugeot has made a bold statement with the E-5008, proving that electric family cars don’t have to be boring or out of reach. So, if you’re ready to make the switch to an EV, the E-5008 is a solid contender for your driveway.