New-look Peugeot 3008 SUV arrives

French car-maker Peugeot has pruned the slow-selling 3008 range to just one model that starts at $35,490, representing a $1000 price cut, in a bid to generate more interest for the unloved model.

As well as the lower price, the sole 3008 Active model adds more features, with a focus on new safety systems, along with an updated exterior aesthetic to try and trigger a positive response from buyers.

In 2014 the 3008 found just 115 homes in Australia, or roughly two cars per week. And that figure was down 36 per cent on 2013's tally.

Pitched as a flexible family vehicle that blends "the space of an MPV, the practicality and high seating position of an SUV, and the convenience and driving dynamics of a hatchback" the new 3008 is pitched with a pair of four-cylinder engines, both coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard.

There's a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine (115kW/240Nm) or a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel (120kW/340Nm) and Peugeot explains that instead of a confusing model range, the "well-specified" Active variant can be fitted with option packs instead. Pricing for the 2015 model year 3008 is as follows:

Active 1.6: $35,490 (7.7L/100km fuel economy)
Active 2.0D: $38,990 (6.6L/100km fuel economy)

Even at these lower prices the 3008 is still significantly more expensive than the Volkswagen Tiguan (from $28,990), Renault Koleos (from $27,990) and most other medium SUVs, which won't make its job any easier.

All 3008 models come with a healthy amount of standard features: reversing camera, rear parking sensors, auto headlights and wipers, dual-zone climate control, an electric park brake, satellite navigation, seven-inch infotainment screen, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, dual rear underfloor stowage spaces and an Arkamys sound system with digital sound processing.

Twin ISOFIX child seat mounts and a central top-tether is there and all models have a split-folding rear tailgate with a 200kg capacity. The 3008 rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and features a subtle new exterior facelift for the front and rear, complete with LED driving lights.

The Premium pack adds $3500 and brings full leather seats with heating function, a colour head-up display, a large panoramic glass roof and rear window sunblinds.

Peugeot Australia general manager John Startari said the new Peugeot 3008 delivers "even better value for money" thanks to the new-look, improved safety features and lower prices.

Stay tuned for a full review of the new 2015 Peugeot 3008 at motoring.com.au.