With the 2008, Peugeot capitalises on its expertise acquired with the success of the 3008 Crossover to create an innovative vehicle for the compact crossover segment. The 2008 shares a lot with the Peugeot 208 hatchback. At just 4.16m long and 1.74m wide, Peugeot 2008 innovates by combining uniquely exciting driving, the robustness of an SUV with the practicality of space, and comfort to enjoy each moment. Equally at home in town and on the road, it can escape the restrictions of a city with confidence and ease.
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| Peugeot 2008 |
Design
The front face adopts the trademark stylistic cues that identify it as a Peugeot. The bonnet is finely sculpted, while the floating grille is cut from a block and is set upright to add to the compact crossovers appeal. The innovative headlamps are designed and integrated to the bodywork forming a cat’s like eyes. Their look is emphasised by LED day running lamps. At the Peugeot 2008 are elegant and sculptured wings. Large windows, including the panoramic roof, offer occupants a spacious interior open to its surroundings. A roof wave emerges above the rear seats and cuts into the metal and extension of the spoiler.
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| Striking and aggressive front |
Moving to the back the boot volume, with a low loading sill, has above it a roof with dynamic curves. The wide rear door is framed by lamps secured solidly to the bodywork. Floating inside their housing are the three luminous ‘claws’, which are lit at their base by LEDs. With its raised posture, the Peugeot 2008 runs on 17-inch alloy wheels in a matt finish. The special shape of the wheel arch surrounds give the Peugeot 2008 a good stance. The black bumpers and body sills protect it, together with stainless steel front and rear off-road protection panels with chromed side mouldings.
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| 2008’s profile |
Performance
Under the bonnet is a choice of two power units. First on the list is the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder VTi petrol power unit. The 1.2 VTi has an output of 60kW (82hp) and 118Nm of torque. The engine propels the Peugeot 2008 to a top speed of 169km/h. The power plant consumes 6-litres of fuel per 100km covered. Next is the 1.6-litre 4-cylinder VTi with 86kW (115hp) and 160Nm of torque. The petrol power unit accelerates the Peugeot 2008 from 0 to 100km/h in 9.5 seconds and needs 7.7-litres per 100km. Both engines are paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.
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| Power unit |
All 2008s have a system called Grip Control, which s Peugeot’s attempt to compensate for the lack of a four-wheel-drive system. Basically a multi-mode traction control unit, the torque-vectoring system works in five different modes (standard, snow, all terrain, sand and off) and uses a computer system to work out the best way to distribute torque between the two front wheels.
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| Spacious and versatile boot |
Interior
All occupants are transported in an elegant interior ambiance with striking colour schemes. The front fascia is covered in a silky material. Satin chrome parts on the vents, handbrake lever, small steering wheel lower decoration, gear lever knob ears, touch screen trims brighten the cockpit.
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| Cockpit |
A Grip Control dial and aircraft type handbrake arranged on the centre console. With its wheelbase of 2.54 metres, the Peugeot 2008 offers plenty of interior space. The rear passengers have a generous amount of space, thanks to the thinner front seat backs. A 12 Volt socket for the connection of a portable device is fitted.
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| Spacious rear seats |
Access to the large boot is made easy thanks to a large rectangular opening and a low loading sill trimmed with a brushed stainless steel protector. At a touch of a button the rear seats can fold to increase the boot space from 360 to 1194-litres.
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| Claw like rear lamps |
Verdict
The Peugeot 2008 is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable, decently compact crossover. The 2008 is also one of the new likable products to come out of Peugeot and also hints on a bright future for the company.