Peugeot's new 3008 compact SUV will make its first public appearance in Australia at this month's Handa Women's Australian Open golf championship in Melbourne.
The widely acclaimed 3008 is due to be launched on Australian roads in May, however Peugeot will offer a special preview at the Peugeot display throughout the event at the Commonwealth Golf Club on March 11-14.
The 3008 is a compact SUV designed with a number of features also inherent in family hatchbacks and MPVs – resulting in an extremely versatile package.
Since its European launch late last year, the 3008 has gone on to win a number of prestigious awards.
The compact SUV was named Car Of The Year for 2009 by the influential British publication What Car? – also winning its category on the way to the overall title.
It previously won the prestigious Auto Europa 2010 award late last year.
The new 3008 features an array of impressive technology, from the range of advanced diesel and petrol engines to innovative features such as Grip Control, Dynamic Roll Control, Head-Up Display for the driver, Distance Alert, Automatic Electric Parking Brake and Hill Assist.
The exterior and interior style of the 3008 perfectly complements its function, while the fuel consumption figures are as low as 5.6 litres per 100km combined for the manual 2.0-litre HDi diesel – the CO2 emissions on the same version are just 146 grams per kilometre.
The 3008 has been awarded the maximum European NCAP safety rating of five stars, while everything in the car is designed to offer an accessible and intelligent load space adaptable to all kinds of leisure activities.
For example, the load area of the 3008 can easily be compartmentalised thanks to a patented moveable floor with a three-way height adjustment.
Depending on the configuration of the load space, the 3008 offers a load capacity under the parcel shelf of 512 litres, or a very considerable volume of 1,604 litres when the rear seats are folded flat.
Peugeot Automobiles Australia national marketing manager Richard Grant says an international golf championship is the perfect place to debut the new 3008.
"The 3008 just happens to be a perfect car for golfers," he said.
"It has a huge rear load area that is extremely versatile thanks to its adjustable floor.
"Combined with the extra ride height and commanding driving position it offers an ideal proposition for almost any leisure activity.
"I think it will prove a big hit at the Handa Women's Australian Open – particularly when patrons take the opportunity to sit in the stunning interior.
"Peugeot and Golf Australia have had a close relationship over the last four years, so we are delighted to be able to unveil the car at one of their premier events."