Peugeot 2008 review – more sophisticated than before

Verdict – Is the Peugeot 2008 a good car?

The Peugeot 2008 is a versatile small SUV, proving popular among UK buyers in recent years thanks to its trendy styling, frugal 1.2-litre petrol engine the choice of an electric E-2008 version. A recent facelift brings the 2008 up to date with Peugeot’s new, more sophisticated look, and interior quality is as good as ever. Its high price means it looks less attractive when you compare it to rivals, but this can be addressed if you find an attractive finance deal.

Peugeot 2008 models, specs and alternatives

The Peugeot 2008 is one of the most successful and popular cars in the brand’s entire range, despite the fact it has only been around for about a decade. It arrived in 2013 as an SUV with stylish looks, plenty of space inside, and all the tech you need – the latest generation has successfully built on this ethos, and a facelift in 2023 has given the 2008 an even more grown-up and distinctive look, thanks to Peugeot’s latest design theme.

The latest 2008 is a bit bigger than the previous version but it’s still a small SUV based on similar parts to the Peugeot 208 supermini. The new imposing grille and fang-like LED lights help it to look like a larger, more expensive car than it really is, and it stands out even next to bold-looking rivals such as the Renault Captur, Ford Puma, Hyundai Kona, and Nissan Juke.

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Inside things look just as good, thanks to good-quality materials in key places, a fantastic design and loads of hi-tech equipment such as a full digital ‘i-Cockpit' display behind the steering wheel. It’s one of the best interiors of any car in this class, and while some models such as the Mazda CX-30 offer a more premium feel, the Peugeot balances value for money with interior quality very well.

There’s lots of room inside as well, and while this has always been a strong point of the 2008, this latest model is much better than before as well. It’s not as practical as the Skoda Kamiq or Renault Captur, but 434 litres of boot space means it’s roomy enough for most families and there’s loads of legroom in the back seats. There’s room for a small family for sure, and you’ll be able to fit four adults inside comfortably too.

Equipment is good, as even entry-level Active trim gets alloy wheels and air conditioning, while the top-spec GT features bigger wheels, heated seats and a larger media screen. The 2008 is better value than some more premium rivals, but it’s not the cheapest car of its type – the Renault Captur and Skoda Kamiq cost less, for example, and it’s worth shopping around for great finance deals.

The Peugeot 2008 is available with petrol or electric power, and we’ve reviewed the all-electric E-2008 version separately. Here we’ll focus on the petrol models – there are 99bhp and 128bhp versions of a 1.2-litre engine the brand calls ‘PureTech’, which is used in lots of other cars from parent company Stellantis, including the Peugeot 208, Vauxhall Corsa, Vauxhall Mokka and Citroen C3. Peugeot even once sold a diesel version which was good for those looking to cover long distances on a regular basis, but was discontinued before the facelift.

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We reckon the 128bhp petrol is the best choice; fuel economy of up to 52mpg is pretty good and it’s powerful enough for most – which is probably why the 153bhp model was discontinued. Although all 2008s are front-wheel drive only, there's a clever traction control system available called Advanced Grip Control to help keep you going in slippery conditions.

Good to drive, with near-class-leading interior quality and an impressive range of powertrains, the Peugeot 2008 is a compelling small SUV. Peugeot’s biggest problem is the car’s price, because the less expensive Renault Captur is just as good to drive and almost as pleasant inside, while the Kia Niro has a more user-friendly infotainment setup.