Peugeot 2008 review

Yet another dinky SUV. But it’s hard to be angry at something wearing the face of a robotic chipmunk like this Peugeot 2008 does.

It's an aesthetically pleasing thing all round, really, looking like it was designed from the off as an individual model. As opposed to the old 2008, which had the demeanour of a 208 hatchback carrying lockdown weight. It looks big, mind, and indeed it’s longer and more commodious than before.

Buyers aren't short of options when it comes to small SUVs these days, but the 2008, launched back in 2019 and facelifted in 2023, is certainly more eye-catching than the likes of the Ford Puma, Hyundai Kona, Volvo XC40 and VW T-Roc, and to our eyes perhaps even the fetching Vauxhall Mokka.

As well as the usual handful of petrol (no diesel) options, there’s a fully electric e-2008 in the range that simply slots the battery and motors beneath the regular car and wears some very minor exterior tell-tales. Click these blue words if it’s the EV you’re after.

What changes did the facelift bring?

Well, it received a slightly wider face, a black or body-coloured grille depending on spec, and Peugeot’s latest three-claw LED daytime running light signature, the most tenuous of links to the manufacturer’s 9X8 hypercar.

Round the back it also got re-shaped rear lights, and Peugeot lettering running across the entire length of the bootlid, as seems to be the fashion these days. There was also new alloy wheel designs, and Peugeot’s new badge all around too.

We won’t try and sway you too much when it comes to looks, but we reckon the updates were subtle yet effective, improving on an already stylish car.

Is it as glitzy inside?

It’s a familiar layout from elsewhere within the Peugeot range, complete with compact steering wheel and high-mounted instrument cluster.

Post facelift you now get a newly designed 10-inch digital instrument cluster (from mid-spec upwards) - complete with 3D dials on top-spec versions - while all models now come with a 10-inch infotainment display as standard (though the OS remains a little confusing). The gear selector is now a toggle switch instead of gearstick.

You’ll either love it or hate it, but it’s a far nicer place to be than its predecessor and feels premium in here. Head over to the Interior tab for the full lowdown.

What are my engine options?

You’ve three to choose from. Up first are two 1.2-litre turbo petrol engines: the entry-level 2008 has 99bhp and gets a six-speed manual gearbox, while the upper variant (if you can call it that) has 128bhp and can be combined with a six-speed manual or eight-speed auto gearbox. The 153bhp petrol and diesel are no more.

As of 2024 a 134bhp hybrid powertrain has joined the line-up, combining a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine with a new six-speed dual-clutch electrified 'box incorporating an electric motor and tiny battery. Full details on the Driving tab.

Overall, though, it’s pleasant enough to drive, though we did find the ride slightly on the firm side if you upsize beyond 16in alloys. The sharp handling makes up for it, with the 2008 feeling slightly sportier than its competitors.

How much does it cost?

Prices start at just shy of £25k for the entry-level petrol in base-spec trim, rising to just over £28k for the more powerful variant.

The hybrid, meanwhile, starts at a whisker under £28.5k. Head over to the Buying tab for more deets.

We can hear you stifling your yawns from here. This one, though, is among the good ‘uns: it suits its skin rather than looking like a bloated hatchback, the interior feels genuinely fresh, and it’s one of the better driving, sportier small crossovers in a bustling, often dizzyingly crowded segment.

Cost might be of minor concern, however: if you want one of the nicer transmissions, the two-tone colour scheme and some decent safety equipment, you’ll be sailing over 30 grand before you know it. Peugeot’s strict opposition to discounting means its cars have better residuals than ever, mind.