Peugeot 2008 SUV review

The Peugeot 2008 has become one of the French brand's most important models, attracting over a million customers so far. Its second-generation car picks up where the supermini-based crossover left off, but it's even more daring, with a bold design and impressive new tech.

While the first 2008 played it safe with curvy, smooth lines, the latest model is far more angular, taking cues from the larger Peugeot 3008. An imposing grille, jutting chin spoiler and fang-like LED daytime running lights give it a quirky look buyers will either love or hate. In a class full of rivals including the Renault Captur, Skoda Kamiq, Ford Puma, Hyundai Kona, and the car that’s credited with kick-starting the genre, the Nissan Juke, manufacturers have learnt that bland looks don’t play well.

The 2008's interior is even more impressive, with a design and quality that puts most rivals to shame. Flourishes like the piano keys in the middle of the dashboard and the latest version of Peugeot's i-Cockpit look beautiful, quality is excellent and there are lots of surfaces finished in soft materials instead of scratchy plastics. Only the SEAT Arona comes close for quality at this price.

20

The car’s extra length means it’s more spacious, improving room for rear-seat passengers in particular. Legroom is now very good, and there's plenty of space for feet under the front seats. The rear seats don't do anything clever like the sliding ones found in the Skoda Kamiq and Renault Captur, but 434 litres of boot space isn't to be sniffed at.

There's lots of equipment here too, even on the basic Active Premium trim, which gets alloy wheels and air conditioning. Top GT and GT Premium trims look sporty thanks to bigger wheels and a black roof, and get lots of technology, but look expensive next to rivals. A 2008 in GT Premium spec with the middle petrol engine costs several thousand pounds more than the equivalent Captur.

The new platform underpinning the 2008 and 208 supports petrol, diesel and all-electric power, and we've reviewed the e-2008 EV separately. Sticking with combustion engines, there's 99, 128 and 153bhp versions of the 1.2-litre PureTech petrol and a solitary 109bhp diesel but our pick is the middle petrol. It's capable of over 50mpg and offers all the performance most drivers will need with plenty of refinement. Handling is neat and secure too, and while all 2008's are front-wheel drive, there's a clever traction control system called Advanced Grip Control to help keep you going in slippery conditions.

20

Good to drive, with 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.