by Stellantis is not just an auto company; it is a transnational brand alliance that churns out crossovers with the same ease a bakery bakes croissants. By combining names from Italy, France, Germany, and the USA, it’s no surprise that many of its mass-market models share a common technical foundation. This applies to its latest lineup of compact SUVs, which use shared chassis while each retains its visual identity in a crowded and hyper-competitive market.
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Among these technically related ‘cousins,’ Jeep, Citroen, Opel, and Peugeot put subtly different variants into the ring, targeting the same buyers and their wallets. On paper, they have more in common than differences, but visually the variations are enough to make a direct design comparison meaningful.
So, we’ve lined them up, and now it’s your turn to tell us which one you would actually want to see in your garage. Even if it’s theoretical, since most of you won’t get that chance, as Europe is the only region where all of them are currently sold.
Compact Contenders
The contenders include the recently unveiled Jeep Compass, Citroen C5 Aircross, Opel Grandland, as well as the Peugeot 3008 and 5008. A DS9, set to replace the current DS7, is expected to join them in the future. While previous generations of the European models used the PSA-era EMP2 platform, the Jeep is the newcomer to this common architecture, having recently switched from older FCA platforms to the STLA Medium platform.
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As mentioned, none of these models are currently sold in the USA. The Compass has the best chance of crossing the Atlantic—which is a polite way of saying ‘we’re waiting to see how messy trade tariffs get’—as the company has paused work at the Canadian plant where the North American version was supposed to be assembled.
One Platform, Different Personalities
All five SUVs use the same platform but have different bodywork. The Peugeot 3008 and 5008 are the only ones that look like twins from the front, while the others retain their unique sheet metal. This gave designers enough freedom to bring in brand DNA, even if the proportions are dictated by the common architecture.
At the front, the Jeep actively plays up its off-road heritage with a squared-off look, a seven-slot grille, and massive plastic cladding. Citroen moves in the opposite direction, aiming for futurism with split headlights and decorative air intakes that are more for show than function.
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The Peugeot models choose a sporty path with slim headlights and sharp LED ‘claws’ that stretch towards the grille. The Opel Grandland plays it conservatively, with its signature ‘Vizor’ mask that is more restrained but definitely modern.
The side view offers more variety. The Jeep stays true to itself with angular wheel arches and trapezoidal cutouts, giving it the most ‘adventure-ready’ look. Peugeot gives the 3008 a coupe-like roofline, making it the most streamlined in the group, while the 5008 maintains a straight line for maximum space. The Citroen C5 adds curves and quirky details, staying true to its controversial reputation, while the Opel again plays it safe. A shark fin on the D-pillar is its only standout touch.
Size Matters (Kind Of)
In terms of size, the Peugeot 5008 is the largest in this comparison, measuring 4,791 mm in length, placing it in the European D-SUV (mid-size) territory alongside rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq and Toyota RAV4.
The Citroen C5 Aircross and Opel Grandland are almost identical in length at around 4,652 mm, putting them in the upper C-SUV segment—spacious enough for families but still city-friendly. Bringing up the rear in length are the Compass and 3008, at 4,550 mm and 4,540 mm respectively. They are compact but not cramped.
Rear Design and Interior Differences
At the rear, the Citroen perhaps stands out the most thanks to its LED taillights that protrude like sci-fi fins. The Peugeot 3008 again plays the sporty card with a sloping roof and spoiler and shares its sharp taillights with the taller, more angular 5008.
Interestingly, the Grandland’s rear might be its strongest angle, as it was with the previous generation. And the Jeep? The newest Compass finally offers something modern, a significant improvement over its outdated predecessor.
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This brings us to interior design, where things get surprisingly diverse. Each SUV offers its own approach to the digital dashboard, providing its own interpretation of modern tech. The most distinctive layout belongs to Peugeot’s iCockpit, with a curved display, a compact steering wheel, and center console details executed in a light sci-fi aesthetic.
Citroen boasts the largest screen of any Stellantis car—a 13-inch portrait touchscreen mounted on the dashboard, flanked by its signature plush ‘Advanced Comfort’ seats. The Opel’s interior is同样 spacious (equally spacious), though the design is more restrained, with metal inserts and unique textures, but it maintains a simple and comfortable layout.
Under the Hood: Shared DNA
All five SUVs share a common foundation, so there’s no need to dig deep. They are all built on the STLA Medium architecture and offer European buyers a range of powertrains, including mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and all-electric options.
Base versions are equipped with a mild-hybrid system based on a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine. Plug-in hybrids offer a more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged unit paired with a more powerful electric motor and a larger battery. All-electric models offer either [one or two power outputs] to choose from, as well as two battery options depending on range and performance needs.
Your Turn, Stellantis Fans
So which one is best? Which compact SUV perfectly nails the style and which one should really cross the Atlantic? Vote and share your opinion.
