2014 Peugeot 5008 Allure HDi 115 first drive

A facelifted version of the Peugeot 5008, a seven-seat MPV that's offered with a wide range of equipment and engines.

The 5008 was well received, following its launch in 2010. New competitors have arisen though, including the sleek-looking Vauxhall Zafira Tourer, so Peugeot has moved to revitalise its now four-year-old model.

The 2014 version of the 5008 subsequently benefits from Peugeot’s recently revamped front-end styling, including a new grille, redesigned headlights and additional chrome trim.

Being a people carrier, practicality is the order of the day – and the Peugeot still excels in this respect. Inside you’ll find plenty of space for the first and second-row occupants; even adults can just about squeeze into the third row, if needs must.

It’s only a shame that the interior is a little drab, with the materials used being both dark and dull, despite the addition of a panoramic sunroof.

There are myriad touches that make the 5008 effortlessly easy to live with, including rear seats that drop with a quick pull of a strap.

Other neat features, such as an integrated torch, serve to further improve the Peugeot 5008’s gratifying day-to-day usefulness. There’s no standard spare wheel though, frustratingly.

Kit levels are adequate throughout the range, with the range-topping Allure model tested here including sat-nav, a reversing camera, cruise control, a head-up display and climate control.

On the road the 5008 proves a remarkably pleasant car to drive. It handles tidily, is easy to manoeuvre, rides well and isn’t excessively noisy on the move.

The 1.6-litre diesel engine is a refined and flexible choice, offering up adequate performance and a decent claimed 54.3mpg average.

Many will no doubt also appreciate the Peugeot 5008’s five-star Euro NCAP rating, an important factor when considering a family car.

Some buyers may be better off opting for one of the 2.0-litre diesel versions though; when the 5008 is fully loaded they may well prove both more relaxing to drive and more economical.

The revisions haven't really changed much, but if you're in the market for a seven-seat MPV, then the Peugeot 5008 is definitely worthy of consideration.

Despite being an older car though, the facelifted Peugeot costs £745 more than a similarly specified and all-new Citroën Grand C4 Picasso.

While the Peugeot doesn't quite have the visual or technological flair of the new Picasso, however, its tried-and-tested nature may prove more desirable to some.

Peugeot 5008 Allure HDi 115

Price £24,000; 0-62mph 12.9sec; Top speed 115mph; Economy 54.3mpg; CO2 135g/km; Kerb weight 1699kg; Engine 4cyls, 1560cc, turbocharged, diesel; Power 114bhp at 3600rpm; Torque 200lb ft at 1750rpm; Gearbox 6-spd manual