The Peugeot 2008 was revealed back in 2013 and has since been a really competitive subcompact crossover SUV that aims to combine the driving experience of an SUV with the relative affordability and size of a more compact car. This has made the 2008 a fairly popular car in Europe as it continues to sell really well. So, is Peugeot 2008 a good car?
The Peugeot 2008 has its ups and downs which comes as no surprise as that is to be expected with all cars these days. The Peugeot 2008 offers relatively reliable, yet sophisticated, efficient, and quiet engines. The transmission is also good, but it could be better as it does sometimes experience a few issues we are going to mention down below.
The design of the 2008 has gotten a refresh in 2022 which has made the 2008 look really attractive both inside and out. It is a sporty modern-looking crossover SUV that combines various aspects into one. The driving experience is nothing special while reliability could be a bit better as the 2008 isn’t the most reliable car out there.
Value-wise, you truly are getting a lot of value for your money with the 2008, especially the latest iteration. Lastly, practicality is good as the 2008 offers decent space inside, it is easy to drive, has lots of interior cubby spaces, and offers good visibility all around.
Peugeot 2008 – The Powertrain
As far as gasoline engines are concerned, you can get the 2008 with a single 1.2L PureTech inline 3-cylinder engine in three stages of tune. The PureTech 100 offers 102hp, the PureTech 130 offers 130hp, and the PureTech 155 offers 155hp with the 2008 GT trim level. There is also a single diesel engine, the 1.5L BlueHDi in either 100hp, 110hp, or 130hp guise.
The most interesting engine configurations certainly lay in the EV side of things where the e-2008 offers a 50kWh battery with 136hp. This powertrain is a well-known Stellantis setup used on many Stellantis-owned cars. You can expect up to 200 miles with this engine while 100kW DC fast charging should recharge the car from 20% to 80% in about 25 minutes.
The most efficient gasoline models can return up to 50MPG at best while BlueHDi diesel models can return 65MPG. The 2008 is strictly a FWD car, but you can get it with an automatic gearbox which comes included with the top-spec GT model.
Peugeot 2008 – Design and Driving
Design-wise, the 2008 has gotten a hefty refresh back in 2022 when Peugeot updated the 2008 to look modern throughout. The front end is now characterized by the really attractive saber-tooth lighting group while the rear end emphasizes a futuristic approach. Paired with a good-looking exterior color, the 2008 is arguably the best-looking car in its class.
Where Peugeot really did a good job is the interior as the 2008 looks sporty and almost resembles a familiar German brand with four rings as far as interior design is concerned. The driving experience on the other hand is not anything special as the 2008 drives like any other subcompact crossover SUV.
Peugeot 2008 – Reliability and Common Issues
The Peugeot 2008 could be a bit more reliable as it isn’t on par with some other cars from its segment, especially compared to some Asian well-known brands. The most common issues with the 2008 are associated with the transmission being harsh and the transmission actuator, the engine, and the suspension which was included in multiple recalls since the car came out.
We also need to mention DPF issues which can cost a load of money to fix and potential electrical issues, some of which are mild nuisances while some can set the entire car on fire. Be that as it may, the best thing you can do is pay close attention to your 2008, take good care of it, and it should serve you fine.
Peugeot 2008 – Value and Practicality
You can expect to pay £24,295 – £31,045 for the 2008 which is also on par with most of its rivals. Second-hand pre-facelift 2008 has depreciated quite a bit, but still offers a really similar experience to the facelifted model. Therefore, you should consider these as well, especially if you know how to buy a used car.
Practicality is okay as the 2008 does seat up to four people, but not in the most comfortable way possible. The trunk space is okay, the car has many interior cubby spaces and visibility is really good. You can also mount child seat anchor points easily and the car is really easy to get in and out of due to its higher center of gravity.
FAQ Section
Is the Peugeot e-2008 better than the normal 2008?
Considering who usually buys cars like these, the e-2008 might be a better option as it offers a decent amount of range, yet is more reliable, cheaper to own, and easier to live within crowded cities. If you are someone who usually commutes to work and back with the car, and you have a place to charge it, you are going to appreciate the e-2008 more.
On the other hand, if you need a car that can do long-distance journeys more consistently and you don’t like range anxiety, well, one of the diesels or the gasoline 2008 is the better choice for you.
Is the Peugeot 2008 an SUV?
The Peugeot 2008 is classed as a subcompact crossover SUV which means that it does borrow some qualities from the SUV world, but is also leaning toward the hatchback segment. The 2008 is no off-roader by any means as it does not offer AWD or any added protection.
The only real SUV benefits the 2008 has are a higher driving position and slightly better approach and departure angles which can help on steep driveways and curbs.
Is the Peugeot 2008 the smallest Peugeot SUV?
Yes, the 2008 is the smallest SUV Peugeot makes which means that it slots underneath the similarly-sized 3008. It is a car designed to predominantly be driven in the city, but it can also do long-distance journeys without any issues.