Peugeot's 2008 a versatile all-rounder

The Peugeot 2008 is a "fantastic, versatile all-rounder, and certainly one of the best models in its class"

The Peugeot 2008 is a "fantastic, versatile all-rounder, and certainly one of the best models in its class"

While it's only been around for just over a decade, there is no mistaking how important the 2008 nameplate has been for the Peugeot brand.

The original 2008 replaced the Peugeot 207 SW (Station Wagon ) back in 2013, with sales surpassing the one-million mark in the intervening years. Then in 2020, Peugeot launched the second generation 2008, with big improvements made throughout. Now, the latest instalment of this small SUV brings with it a more assertive design, enhanced technology and new electrified powertrains with over 400km of range.

I recently spent some time with both the fully-electric e-2008 in 'GT' trim, and the petrol-powered 2008 in 'Allure' trim. And it was clear to see from testing this pair that the Peugeot 2008 is a fantastic, versatile all-rounder, and certainly one of the best models in its class.

Produced at the Vigo plant in Spain, the latest Peugeot 2008 features the brand’s new front and rear light signature and a redesigned front end with the new Peugeot shield. New colour options, innovative wheel designs, updated badges, and new refined fabrics have also been added. There are three trim levels depending on powertrain: 'Active', 'Allure', and 'GT', with a choice of petrol, mild-hybrid and fully-electric engines.

The Peugeot e-2008 is available in all three trims and features a new 115kW/156bhp all-electric engine that has a quoted range of up to 406km. The battery has proved its ability to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in around 25 minutes using a public DC charger. A full charge takes 7.5 hours using a 7kW wallbox charger, according to Peugeot, while 100 km/h can be achieved from standing in 8.5 seconds.

In addition to the electric powertrain, the Peugeot 2008 also features a choice of advanced 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engines. The PureTech 100 is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the PureTech 130 can be combined with either the EAT8 eight-speed automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual gearbox. These are only available in Active and Allure trims. The 48V hybrid powertrain option consists of a new-generation 136 bhp 1.2 litre PureTech petrol engine, coupled with a new six-speed dual-clutch electrified gearbox that includes an electric motor. Allure and GT trims are available for this.

Ideally located at eye-level, just above the compact steering wheel (one of my favourite features on the latest Peugeot models ), the 2008's instrument cluster is digital on the Allure and GT versions. Its 10-inch digital display has a new design and, on GT versions, a 3D display. All 2008 models now come with a 10-inch central touchscreen as standard. Under the central screen, the piano keys have been kept for quick access to key functions. Driving position and visibility should be commended.

All new 2008 models feature black mirrors, regardless of the body colour chosen, while the GT version comes with a black bi-tone roof as standard. There's a choice of six body colours, including the striking 'Vertigo Blue' that was donned by my petrol-powered press car.

Exterior dimensions of the latest 2008 remain unchanged from the previous version: 4.30 metres long, 1.987 metres wide (including mirrors ), 1.55 metres high. This translates to impressive leg and headroom for both front and rear occupants. There's a 434-litre boot (under the parcel shelf ), expanding to 1,467-litres with the rear seats folded – enough to allow me to transport a washing machine!

Priced from €30,440 for the 'Active' petrol version, rising to €40,230 for the 'GT' e-2008, Peugeot's latest 2008 small SUV range ticks all the boxes.

 

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