PEUGEOT 2008
The PEUGEOT 2008 is a subcompact crossover SUV available primarily in body styles that include a five-door hatchback. It offers multiple powertrain options: a 1.2-litre turbocharged PureTech petrol engine in two outputs—100 horsepower paired with a six-speed manual transmission, and 130 horsepower available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox. The top trim features a 136 horsepower hybrid powertrain combining the turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor. The layout is front-engine, front-wheel-drive only. Fuel economy varies from around 48.9 to 62.1 miles per gallon depending on the engine and transmission choice. Interior space provides comfortable seating for five with competitive legroom in its class and a trunk volume suitable for daily cargo needs. Safety equipment includes multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, emergency braking assistance, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention alert.
Among its strengths, the 2008 scores well on fuel efficiency, especially with the hybrid variant, and features a distinctive interior with Peugeot’s signature i-Cockpit design, including a compact steering wheel and digital displays. Its ride and handling are noted for a sporty feel unusual in this segment. On the downside, resale values tend to be average rather than strong, and the brand has a mixed reliability reputation compared to some Japanese competitors. Some earlier models experienced minor niggles such as infotainment glitches and minor electrical issues. The 2025 refresh addresses many technology and comfort features, but buyer familiarity with Peugeot-specific interfaces can be a learning curve.
Key specs and highlights
The 2025 PEUGEOT 2008 features three primary powertrains: the base 1.2-litre PureTech 100 petrol engine with 100 hp and six-speed manual transmission, the more versatile 1.2-litre PureTech 130 petrol available with manual or an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and the range-topping 136 hp hybrid that blends the small turbo petrol engine with an electric motor for improved power and fuel economy. The hybrid can sprint from 0-62 mph in 8.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 128 mph. The petrol manual variant reaches nearly 52 mpg, while the hybrid can achieve up to 62 mpg in real-world settings. Externally, the vehicle measures around 4.3 meters in length, providing a spacious cabin and a boot capacity in the range of 410 liters, expandable by folding the rear seats. Standout interior technology includes a 10-inch high-definition touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an optional 3D digital instrument cluster on upper trims.
Standard safety tech encompasses emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, speed limit recognition, and advanced driver alerts. The overall design refresh modernizes the front grille and lighting signature, aligning with Peugeot’s latest styling cues and increasing aerodynamic efficiency.
Driving experience
The PEUGEOT 2008 delivers a driving experience that balances comfort with sporty responsiveness. The suspension is tuned to manage typical city and highway road surfaces well, but larger alloy wheels and tires in higher trims can lead to a firmer ride feel. Handling is a highlight, with sharp steering inputs making the SUV feel nimble and engaging compared to competitors that prioritize softness.
Acceleration in the petrol engines is adequate for urban and highway use, with the hybrid offering noticeably quicker launch and smoother power delivery due to electric assistance. Braking is firm and progressive, providing confidence in various conditions. Cabin noise insulation is generally good, though wind noise can be perceptible at higher speeds. Seating offers good support and comfort for most occupants, with driving position visibility enhanced by tall seating and compact wheel design.
Trims and equipment
The 2008 comes mainly in two trims: Allure and GT. The Allure serves as the well-equipped base trim, featuring LED headlights, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone integration, and important driver assistance items like rear parking sensors and lane-keeping aids. The GT trim adds luxury touches such as full LED headlights with Smartbeam Assist, a ‘Black Diamond’ contrasting roof, leather-effect seating with ambient lighting, and a configurable 3D head-up display.
Additional options include parking cameras with 180-degree views, keyless entry with push-button start, and modular boot floor settings. The GT’s interior materials elevate the feel, making it the preferred choice for buyers seeking a more refined cabin atmosphere and advanced tech features.
Reliability and maintenance
PEUGEOT 2008’s reliability record is generally regarded as average within the compact SUV segment. Early ownership data indicates some minor issues related to electronic systems, particularly infotainment glitches and occasional sensor errors, but these are usually resolved with software updates during routine servicing. Mechanical components, including the 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine and hybrid system, have shown robust performance with no widespread reports of major failure in recent model years.
Regular maintenance intervals follow typical European standards, often involving service every 12,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Replacement parts and servicing costs are moderate; however, specialized hybrid servicing may incur slightly higher expenses. Prospective buyers should check for full service history and confirm that software updates have been applied.
Fuel economy and running costs
Fuel consumption for the PEUGEOT 2008 varies by powertrain. The base petrol engine achieves official combined fuel economy figures around 48 to 52 mpg, aligning with efficient use in urban and mixed driving conditions. The hybrid model excels with combined figures in the range of 51 to over 60 mpg, thanks to electric motor assistance and regenerative braking.
Insurance premiums are typically average for the segment, reflecting its compact dimensions and moderate engine sizes. Depreciation trends indicate the 2008 holds value reasonably well compared to domestic rivals but lags behind some Asian competitors known for stronger resale. Running costs including fuel, servicing, and insurance make it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting and small family use.
Safety and driver assistance
Safety is a core focus for the PEUGEOT 2008, which comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. These include multiple airbags covering driver, passenger, side, and curtain protection, as well as ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and emergency braking assistance.
Advanced driver assistance systems include lane keeping assistance, speed limit recognition with adaptive cruise control options, driver attention alert, and active blind spot monitoring on higher trims. Parking aids are enhanced by a high-definition reversing camera with multi-angle views and front/rear parking sensors for maneuvering ease. These features contribute to positive safety assessments, positioning the 2008 as a secure compact SUV choice.
Model history and changes
The PEUGEOT 2008 first arrived in 2013 as a stylish compact SUV alternative to hatchbacks, gaining popularity for its design and urban practicality. The second generation, launched in 2019, introduced more modern styling alongside improved interior quality and refinement.
The current 2025 update focuses on technology and efficiency improvements such as new hybrid powertrains and enhanced infotainment. This iteration replaces older diesel and higher-powered petrol options, streamlining the range to emphasize efficient petrol and hybrid variants. Buyers typically prefer post-2023 models with the hybrid option and digital cockpit for the best combination of performance and equipment.
Competitors and alternatives
In the subcompact SUV market segment, the PEUGEOT 2008 competes with models like the Renault Captur, Nissan Juke, and Volkswagen T-Cross. Compared to these rivals, the 2008 stands out for its stylish and upscale interior environment along with a sporty drive character. However, it may trail the Captur slightly in terms of interior space efficiency and the Volkswagen in brand recognition.
Each competitor offers distinct strengths; for instance, the Nissan Juke is well-known for bold styling and aggressive pricing, while the Volkswagen T-Cross boasts a more conservative design and reputed reliability. Buyers prioritizing driving engagement and tech innovation often lean toward the 2008.
Buying advice and verdict
The PEUGEOT 2008 is best suited for urban and suburban drivers seeking a compact SUV with a stylish design, efficient petrol or hybrid engines, and modern tech. Its core advantages include a premium-feeling cabin, sharp handling, and commendable fuel economy, especially in hybrid guise.
Buyers should consider the GT trim to benefit from comprehensive equipment and the hybrid powertrain for superior efficiency. Important pre-purchase checks include verifying the service history, ensuring software updates for infotainment, and testing ride comfort with the wheels installed on the variant of interest.
In summary, the PEUGEOT 2008 blends distinctive French styling with practical everyday usability, making it a competitive choice if you value driving engagement and advanced interior tech over outright cargo space or top resale value. It is recommended for those valuing design and technology in a compact SUV package.