Peugeot 3008 Plug-in Hybrid Engine Review

The 3008 has offered plug-in hybrid power across two generations, and in that time there have been four plug-in versions, including a four-wheel-drive model with an electric motor on the rear axle. If you're shopping new or used, here's how they compare.

Second-Generation 3008 Plug-in Hybrids (to 2023)

From the English Peugeot 3008/5008 owner's handbook. The plug-in hybrids are listed for the 3008 only. The second-generation 5008 had no plug-in version.

All three use the 8-speed e-EAT8 electric automatic gearbox.

Hybrid4 300: the all-weather option

The Hybrid4 is the most interesting of the three. The rear axle is driven only by its own electric motor, with no driveshaft from the engine, so you get four-wheel-drive traction whenever there's enough battery charge. It's also the most powerful 3008 of its generation. For UK owners who live somewhere hilly or rural, the extra grip in wet and icy weather is a real benefit.

Hybrid 225 vs Hybrid 180

If you're buying used, note that according to the handbook the Hybrid 225 has a larger battery than the Hybrid 180 (14.2 vs 12.4 kWh). That should mean a little more electric-only driving between charges. The 180 is the more affordable choice and has plenty of performance for a family SUV.

Third-Generation 3008: Plug-in Hybrid 195 (2024 on)

The new 3008 launched with a single plug-in version. According to the 01/2024 3008 handbook:

The battery is much larger than in any second-generation plug-in (21 kWh against 12.4-14.2 kWh), so the new car can do far more of its driving on electricity. It's also the best tow car of the 3008 plug-ins, at 1,550 kg braked.

Getting the Best From a Plug-in 3008

1. Plug in every night if you can. The official economy figures assume a charged battery; real-world savings depend on how often you charge.
2. Use Electric mode for short trips and Hybrid mode for everything else. The car's management system is good at blending the two.
3. Make the most of regenerative braking. Selecting B on the gear selector, where fitted, increases deceleration when you lift off and returns more energy to the battery.
4. Don't buy one for long-distance driving alone. On motorway trips with a flat battery, a BlueHDi diesel is usually more economical.
5. Company car drivers: in the UK, plug-in hybrids sit in much lower benefit-in-kind bands than petrol or diesel SUVs.

Looking for something without a plug? Our Peugeot 3008 engine and performance review covers the petrol, diesel and Hybrid 136 options. For the full car, read our Peugeot 3008 review.