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The Peugeot 3008 for South Africa was launched this week, in central Namibia's Kalahari desert of all places, and the car manufacturer says it intends to "compete head to head with vehicles in divergent market segments".

Simply put, Peugeot is taking on its rivals' SUVs, MPVs and family hatchbacks.

It's a big task, but the 3008 looks like it could be up to the job.

Peugeot Motors SA managing director Jean Francois Bacos in a statement said: "Through its non-conformist approach and resolute styling, the Peugeot 3008 is a genuinely pioneering vehicle. It offers original solutions and extended versatility to those customers seeking a practical, safe, reassuring and hugely enjoyable motoring package."

"By blending the best attributes of the most popular contemporary market segments into one vehicle concept, the Peugeot 3008 is a true crossover in every respects. It opens up new motoring horizons, and will appeal to buyers on both an emotive and a rational level."

'Flowing monospace'

It design is a harmonious fusion of three different genres, defined by a flowing, tall, 'monospace shape' ? similar to an MPV - and highlighted by generous interior space.

The 3008 is based on the Peugeot?s Platform 2, which also underpins the 308 hatchback. Despite the shared platform, it expresses a unique personality.

Front and rear guard plates and a high ?waist? make it appear very robust, while short front and rear overhangs indicate an XUV potential.

If that isn't enough space, all that the occupants in the Executive model have to do is look up to enjoy a vast view through the panoramic roof. Together with the large windscreen, these pieces of glass make up over five square metres of glazed surface in the 3008.

Comfort in the cabin is exemplary - dual-density foam seats with rigid side trim and a climate control system that uses four vents in the fascia and two adjustable rear vents make any trip enjoyable.

Performance and efficiency

The 3008 is offered with three engines, a 1.6-litre VTi that develops 88kW and maximum torque of 160Nm at 4250rpm; a 1.6-litre THP (Turbo High Pressure) that is lively at low engine speeds and delivers 115kW and 240Nm; and a two-litre turbodiesel putting out 110kW and 340Nm.

All this power going through the wheels does not mean the ride has to be harsh. A passive hydraulic system increases the damping effect when cornering to reducing body roll and virtually eliminates bounce during straight-line driving.

Peugeot says the 3008 "represents numerous other category firsts, depending on the specific model and execution".

"These include head up display, distance alert, an automatic electric parking brake and hill assist, USB and Bluetooth connectivity.

"?In addition, the standard specification list is comprehensive across the board," it says.

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