The Qashqai had better watch out! Peugeot has confirmed a model based on its Prologue concept, seen at this year’s Paris Motor Show, will go on sale here by the end of 2009.

It’s codenamed the T84 and is likely to be called the 3008 when it hits showrooms. The SUV/hatchback crossover will be the first model to take the fight directly to Nissan’s smash-hit Qashqai.

Two-wheel-drive variants of the 3008 go on sale next year, with a choice of petrol or diesel power. And in 2011, an all-wheel-drive diesel-electric hybrid will join the line-up.

Peugeot anticipates the latter will have a power output of 197bhp, with CO2 emissions of 109g/km. Prices for the 3008 range are set carry a premium of about £1,000 over the equivalent 308 hatchback models. Further details are set to be revealed at the official unveiling early next year.

However, that’s not all Peugeot has in store. The company is also readying an all-new seven-seat MPV, based on the same platform. This is due to appear in showrooms in 2010.

Thats ugly as sin...

I was watching an old Top Gear episode the other day as well, where they were using the current MPV/Hatchback crossover as mini cabs, and they came to the conclusion that they were a complete and utter waste of time, space and money...with no actual benefits to space etc etc.

The only cars with any benefits to large familys are 7 seaters. If your planning on buying this "Thing", wait till 2010.