With its sleek looks, generous practicality, plentiful storage and smooth drive, the Peugeot 5008 is an undeniably sensible choice for a seven-seater SUV. Since it was first launched in 2018, Peugeot has now updated the car slightly - we recently drove the 1.6 PureTech EAT8 model that featured an updated engine and new gearbox.

Those looking for a more frugal option can choose this variant instead - the 1.2 PureTech EAT8 Allure 7-Seater. 

What's changed?

The important change here is the gearbox - an Aisin eight-speed gearbox replaces the six-speeder found in the 2018 model.

However, unlike the 1.6-litre engine that received a slight power bump, this 1.2-litre lump remains unchanged. Regardless, it's a capable engine. Yes, with just 129bhp and 230Nm of torque, it's not particularly quick in a straight line (0-100km/h takes 11.8 seconds), but for sensible driving, it's good enough.

Driven lightly, the engine delivers sufficient power once you get moving, and the two extra cogs in the gearbox does bring some added smoothness to the overall drive. It also means that at highway speeds, you don't feel (or hear) the engine straining quite as hard. Efficiency-wise, the 5008 is reasonable - the on-paper 18.8km/L figure is optimistic, but you can realistically achieve 14km/L to 15km/L. 

The only time you'll really feel the lack of power is when the car is fully loaded with passengers or a significant amount of cargo.

The rest of the car is unchanged, and that's not a knock at all. After all, when it was launched in 2018, we liked how the car boasted sleek, modern looks and a clean interior design that was both intuitive to use and quite delightful to live with every day.

The car also has useful safety and driver assistance functions, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The car also uses a front camera to detect speed limit signs, and can adjust the cruise control speed to match the road speed limit.

What's the difference?

Beyond the engine differences, the other key difference between the 1.6 model and this model is that this is a Cat A COE car, while the 1.6 model falls into Cat B. Expectedly, the road tax on this 1.2 model is also cheaper. Beyond that, both cars are equipped and specified identically, with two trims levels available. 

For a seven-seater SUV that delivers plenty of space, utility and comfort, the Peugeot 5008 definitely impresses. And unless you desperately want extra power (no reason you should), or are regularly carrying seven people, this 1.2 model will more than adequately do the job.