2021 Peugeot 5008 Allure Review

The C-segment SUV market in Malaysia is currently highly competitive, with 7-seater models becoming a popular choice among family users due to their versatility. However, most models either have simple configurations or inflated prices. The 2021 Peugeot 5008 Allure, as a representative of this segment, is priced at over RM186,000 and focuses on high-quality design, practical 7-seater space, and balanced performance. Many consumers are curious whether it can strike a balance between value for money and product capability. In this test drive, we will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, from static experience to dynamic performance, to see if it truly meets the needs of Malaysian families who value attention to detail and practicality.

In terms of exterior design, the 2021 5008 Allure continues Peugeot's family design language, featuring smooth lines with a slightly muscular touch and a distinct identity. The front features a large blackened grille with chrome accents and sharp LED headlights on both sides, giving off a stable yet refined look. The side profile showcases a character line running from the front to the rear, while the 225/55 R18 multi-spoke wheels enhance the side proportions. At the rear, the claw-shaped LED taillights are a signature design element with high recognition when illuminated, and the dual-exhaust style layout below (merely decorative) adds a sporty feel. Overall, its design aligns with the bold positioning of an SUV while using detailed elements to avoid appearing too monotonous.

Entering the cabin, the quality of the materials stands out immediately — the dashboard is covered with large areas of soft-touch plastic, accented with silver trims, creating an ambiance of understated luxury. The center console has a clean layout, with a 10-inch capacitive touchscreen centrally placed that provides good responsiveness. Below the screen, some physical buttons are retained for convenient operation while driving. The instrument panel is fully digital, providing abundant information and allowing for different themes depending on the driving mode. In terms of features, the front seats offer 6-way electric adjustment with 4-way lumbar support, while the rear comes with independent air vents. The second-row seats can be folded in a 40:20:40 split and also slide forward and backward, while the third-row seats can be folded in a 50:50 split, offering great flexibility. Additionally, practical features such as keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, and a panoramic sunroof come as standard, greatly enhancing everyday convenience.

Space performance is one of the core strengths of the 5008 Allure. The vehicle measures 4670mm×1855mm×1655mm, with a wheelbase of 2840mm, which places it among the top levels for 7-seater SUVs in its class. The front row is spacious, and a 175cm-tall tester still has a headroom allowance of about a fist and two fingers after adjusting the seat. When the second-row seats are pushed all the way back, legroom exceeds two fists, making it spacious enough even for installing a child seat without feeling cramped. Although the third-row space isn't as ample as the first two rows, it can still accommodate adults for short trips, perfectly suited for the occasional need to carry a fully loaded family. The trunk offers a base capacity of 952L, which can be expanded further by folding down the third-row seats, easily accommodating several suitcases or a baby stroller. As for storage, the door pockets, center armrest box, and other thoughtfully designed compartments allow for convenient organization of everyday small items.

For the powertrain, the 5008 Allure is equipped with a 1.6T turbocharged engine, generating a maximum power of 167PS and a peak torque of 240N·m, paired with a 6AT transmission. The parameters are not particularly aggressive, but the actual performance aligns well with its family-oriented positioning. During the starting phase, the power response is brisk, and a light press on the accelerator provides good acceleration; during mid-range acceleration, the transmission shifts smoothly, and when overtaking, deeper accelerator input delivers a linear and continuous power output. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 8.9 seconds, which is adequate for daily urban commutes or highway cruising. There are three driving modes available: Standard, Sport, and Eco. In Sport mode, the throttle sensitivity increases, suitable for occasional spirited driving; Eco mode is more suitable for long-distance cruising, effectively reducing fuel consumption.

Handling and chassis performance exceed expectations. The steering wheel is precise with minimal play, making daily driving highly agile; the suspension adopts a combination of front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam, but it is tuned for comfort. When driving over speed bumps or uneven roads, most small vibrations are filtered out, ensuring rear passengers remain comfortable. While cornering, the body roll is well-controlled, and the suspension provides adequate support, maintaining good overall stability. However, on continuous bumpy roads, the limitations of the rear torsion beam become apparent, such as increased body movement compared to independent suspension systems. That said, for a family SUV, this performance is acceptable.

In the specific tests, we focused on fuel consumption and braking. For fuel consumption, under a 50-50 mix of city and highway conditions, the actual combined fuel consumption is approximately 8.5L/100km, slightly higher than the official figure of 8.2L. Considering frequent hard accelerations during the test drive, this figure is quite acceptable. As for braking, during full emergency stops, the body remains stable, and the braking force output is linear, with a stopping distance from 100km/h of about 38 meters, meeting the average level for its class. Noise control is also worth mentioning. During 120km/h highway cruising, wind noise and tire noise are not very noticeable, allowing for normal conversation inside the car without raising voices, demonstrating commendable overall quietness.

In terms of driving and ride comfort, the seats provide good support and cushioning, ensuring that long drives won’t feel tiring. Energy recovery (though it is a fuel-driven car, the engine start-stop system operates smoothly) is integrated seamlessly without abrupt interventions. The air conditioning cools rapidly, and the independent rear air conditioning accommodates the needs of different passengers. However, the comfort of the third-row seats is relatively average, with thinner cushions that may cause fatigue during long periods of sitting, making it more suited for short-term emergency use.

Overall, the core highlights of the 2021 Peugeot 5008 Allure are clear: first, its balanced design and quality, with refined details in both interior and exterior that appear more sophisticated compared to similarly priced Japanese SUVs. Second, its flexible 7-seat space easily meets daily family needs and occasional full-load scenarios. Third, its abundance of standard features, such as the full digital instrument panel and electric seats, without requiring extra payment, offers outstanding value for money. Compared to competitors in the same class like the 7-seater Honda CR-V or Toyota Fortuner, the 5008 Allure holds advantages in space flexibility and features. Although its brand awareness might be slightly lower, its product competitiveness is not lacking.

Overall, the 2021 Peugeot 5008 Allure is an SUV that is suitable for family users who value quality and practicality. It does not have particularly aggressive power nor fancy features, but it achieves a balanced performance in core aspects such as design, space, and configuration. It is especially suitable for those who need a 7-seater vehicle but do not wish to compromise on comfort and refinement. If your budget is between 180,000 and 200,000 MYR, and you are looking for an SUV that can cater to both daily commuting and family outings, the 5008 Allure is worth considering for your shortlist.