These are two models that have not competed in the same category before. Immediately after the presentation of his new Renault ScenicPeugeot launched its future bestseller: The 3008.

The two models are of very different origins

At Renault, get out of the thermal minibus, give way Fully electric SUV ! The diamond received an emblematic name “Picturesque” to offer a new type of car that no longer has anything to do with the historical model. Launched in 1996, the unibody design was no longer in vogue. The 5th generation Scénic gives way to an SUV with a sharp appearance.

In contrast, Peugeot introduced a version e-3008 fully electric, a first for its SUV. But for the 3rd generation of its flagship model, the lion takes a little risk and chooses a slightly “fast” rear, a very fashionable design at the moment.

With such similar physical and technical characteristics, our two models are now quite close come face to face!

Turn to electricity

It is not surprising that the two future competitors are betting on electricity. THE picturesque, developed on a technical basis CMF-EV with Megane E-Tech, is strictly electric. Equipped with a synchronous rotor motor, it is sold in two versions. The first with a capacity of 170 hp. with a battery capacity of 60 kWh provides a WLTP autonomy of 420 km, as well as another more powerful version with a capacity of 218 hp, which offers up to 620 km thanks to the battery 87 kW/h.

If the Peugeot 3008 will also be available in thermal versions (136 hp Mild-hybrid and 195 PHEV), the model was first officially presented under the name “e-3008”. Based on the Stellantis STLA Medium platform, the SUV has three engine levels. 210 hp version with two-wheel drive, “dual engine” version with a capacity of 320 hp. If the first two are aimed at a range of 525 km WLTP (battery 73 kWh), then the third version promises to 700 km thanks to the battery 98 kW/h. Pretty convincing!

New designs

In terms of appearance, the two models are radically different from the previous generations. At Peugeot, e-3008 way SUV coupe gains 9 cm in length (4.54 meters), 6 cm wide (1.90 meters) and 2 cm in height (1.64 meters). Its heavily raked rear window, its “fastback” silhouette and protruding edges set the tone.

The grille has also been largely redesigned with a more detailed design and signature three claws. From the side of the trunk, despite the increase in size, the volume of the trunk remains at the same level 520 dm3 according to Peugeot, regardless of the engine (thermal or electric).

Scénic is more like a “cross sedan” because of its low height. From the front, both models have a certain similarity: a thin strip connecting the headlights, patterns applied to the grille… The styles are similar!

Manufacturer archives Renault Scénic V E-Tech Electric Iconic 2023

At the rear, its new individual arrow-shaped lights are reminiscent of those recently seen on the Rafale. There are also flush door handles, which are not found on the Peugeot. The trunk provides volume 545 dm3, but there is no removable or height-adjustable floor. A hatch for skis will allow you to load long objects.

Very different interiors

On this new one 3008, Peugeot completely revised the interior architecture. Large plate 21 inches to regroup digital counters AND screen touch multimedia. Picture instrument panel original, modern, and the gray textile coating adds elegance and a great perception of quality.

Contrary to all expectations, the increase in centimeters in length (+ 9 cm) and wheelbase (+ 6.5 cm) do not provide more legroom, and the middle seat interferes with the center console. On the other hand, the headroom is very correct. In addition, the 3008 has plenty of storage space (34 liters in total) and USB-C and 12V connectors (front and rear).

The Scénic uses the Megane E-Tech’s very successful L-shaped dual-screen dashboard (12.3-inch gauges, 12-inch vertical tablet). Renault has chosen recycled materials from bio-sources (with a complete absence of skin), which provide a pleasant visual and tactile effect.

Like Rafale, new Picturesque can be equipped (optionally) with an innovative panoramic glass roof Solarbay which becomes opaque in segments (front, back or fully) with a button or voice command. Combined with the light upholstery, this creates a feeling of space in the rear seats that is actually quite real, especially for the legs. But the trip will be especially comfortable for two, because the central seat facilitates the use of an armrest (equipped with retractable supports for a phone and a tablet).

Unfortunately, the habitability could have been improved. At Renault, we kept only the name of the famous Scénic. Those nostalgic for a minivan will miss its modularity and particularly its sliding seat, but this is compensated by very good habitability, aided by a long wheelbase (2.79m compared to the 3008’s 2.74m, although on the outside it bigger).

To make a final decision, we will have to wait for the first dynamic tests scheduled for early 2024, as well as the prices, which should be announced at the end of the year. According to our estimates, the Scénic models should be more attractive than the 3008 models. To be continued!

Read also:

Peugeot: which models will be affected by the environmental penalty?

Renault Captur: here is the price of a compact SUV with all the options

Stellantis gives a small gift to its employees