Peugeot is having fun with one thing of a renaissance. Following the profitable reinvention of its 3008 and 5008 fashions, the 2008 has additionally now been reworked right into a daring crossover.
Out there with each petrol and diesel engines, plus an all-electric model (badged e-2008), the vary is priced from £21,030.
Peugeot markets the 2008 as an “SUV”, however other than its raised trip peak and quick overhangs, it might be a stretch to class it as a 4×4 off-roader.
That stated, Superior Grip Management is obtainable as an possibility. It’s a formidable system designed to optimise traction in low-grip situations by deciding on considered one of three modes (sand, mud or snow) and it provides a Hill Help Descent Management.
So, although it’s not four-wheel drive, it’s the subsequent smartest thing and offers you a bit of additional confidence in excessive climate situations, for example.
One factor is for certain, its daring SUV-inspired seems to be give the 2008 critical highway presence and units it other than its many rivals, such because the Renault Captur, Jeep Renegade, Skoda Kamiq and Nissan Juke.
It’s a category act inside too, that includes the newest model of Peugeot’s ‘i-Cockpit’ – a classy, futuristic infotainment system boasting fluid, vibrant graphics in a cabin that’s cool and particular person.
Quite a lot of thought has gone into ‘i-Cockpit’. As an illustration, the central display could be navigated fully by contact, however Peugeot’s additionally realised that fumbling round on the transfer isn’t all the time best, so there’s additionally a financial institution of shortcut buttons immediately beneath, giving direct entry to the sat nav and telephone.
Identical to different current Peugeots, the 2008 includes a small steering wheel and a digital driver’s show set again. It’s an uncommon structure, but it surely quickly turns into second nature.
The inside construct high quality is great – rivalling extra premium fashions from Volkswagen and Audi. There’s additionally loads of area, with respectable head and legroom for adult-sized rear-seat passengers, plus 434 litres of boot capability (increasing to 1,467 litres with the again seats down).
We examined probably the most highly effective petrol-engine model in high-end GT spec. The 153bhp three-cylinder turbocharged unit is paired with an eight-speed computerized gearbox and good for a 0-62mph dash of 8.2 seconds and a high pace of 129mph.
Gasoline consumption is as much as 46.6mpg, whereas CO2 emissions are 141g/km.
Clearly if you happen to do lots of miles, then the very good 1.5-litre diesel may make extra sense (as much as 65.7mph). Or, if you happen to’re able to make the swap to pure electrical, the e-2008 has a helpful 206-mile vary.
The 1.2-litre engine in our check automotive is used broadly all through the Peugeot and Citroen vary, and regardless of its measurement, it’s a punchy performer. Given the selection, we’d most likely go for the mid-range 128bhp model which has greater than sufficient energy and barely higher gas financial system.
The 2008 is obtainable in Energetic Premium, Attract, Attract Premium, GT and GT Premium trim ranges. Tools could be very beneficiant, with even the essential model getting 16-inch alloy wheels, air-con, LED headlights and i-Cockpit. As ever, the extra you pay, the extra goodies on supply.
Trip consolation is on the agency facet, however nonetheless good, whereas fast steering and a good turning circle make it an awesome selection for city environments. It drives properly too, inspiring loads of confidence, however we reckon it’s at its greatest as a refined cruiser.
Extra spirited drivers will likely be happy to know you can swap between Eco, Regular and Sport driving modes, and it stays surprisingly flat in sooner corners, whereas common grip ranges are additionally as much as scratch. The eight-speed computerized field additionally works properly.
Verdict: If you happen to’re searching for a particular compact crossover, then the daring new Peugeot 2008 ought to positively be in your shortlist. Sensible, properly geared up, comfy, fulfilling to drive and with a premium really feel, it’s a category act.
Peugeot UK
