Since the launch of the 2008 in 2013 it has become the best-selling model for Peugeot in Ireland. I’ve had the opportunity to test drive the newest 2008 in both petrol and diesel variants at the international press launch in Valencia, Spain. The outgoing model aspired to obtain the SUV status and given its production figures of 580,000 since 2013 they appear to have achieved this to a certain degree. The newest 2008 has been given an overhaul resulting in a more rugged, stylish model which will definitely attract increased sales.
The 2016 Peugeot 2008 is now offered in four trim levels; Access, Active and Allure along with the introduction of GT Line trim which is also available in a number of the other Peugeot models. The exterior of the newest model benefits from the new Peugeot vertical grille. The Peugeot Lion moves from the bonnet down on to the grille. Both the Allure and GT Line trims benefit from chrome inserts in the grille. The front bumper has been updated to allow for a more rugged look with protective scuff plates while the headlights are now integrated into the contours of the bonnet and front bumper. Wheel arch extensions add to this rugged appearance as well as the scuff plate on the rear bumper. The 2008 is also showcasing the new rear 3D LED lights.
The interior of the Peugeot 2008 maintains the unique i-Cockpit cabin which combines the now customary compact steering wheel and a head up instrument panel along with a new upgraded central touchscreen. The rationale behind Peugeot’s i-Cockpit is to ensure that the driver has the best sight of the road ahead whilst having all of the key information available with a simple glance. Space within the cabin if the 2008 is impressive. Given the dash layout there is ample room up front while the rear seat passengers benefit from the pleasure of comfortable room. Headroom is also sufficient. Boot space has been increased to 410 litres with the rear seats in situ and this expands to a huge 1400 litres when the modular rear seats are folded down.
During the course of two days of test driving the various models within the new range I had the opportunity to experience Allure and GT Line trim levels. With the introduction of the GT Line trim it adds a sportier, red and black interior colour theme. Standard within the trim are 17-inch diamante alloys, stainless steel scuff plates, aluminium pedals along with red stitching on the floor mats, seats, gear stick surround and steering wheel. From the Active trim upwards you will get Mirror Screen and Apple Carplay (for interfacing your smart phone), Active City Brake and Park Assist as standard while the GT Line adds Peugeot’s Grip Control as standard. During the course of my test drives I had the opportunity to put the Grip Control to the test and it definitely makes a difference when the 2008 is struggling to find traction. In short, this system delivers optimum traction on all types of terrain and is combined with all-season tyres.
The Peugeot 2008 SUV is powered by a broad range of Euro 6 engines with PureTech petrol and BlueHDi diesel engines ensuring that there is an engine available for everybody’s needs. Within the new Peugeot 2008 range the 1.2 litre PureTech petrol engine is available in 82bhp, 110 bhp and 130 bhp options. The 1.2L PureTech 130 coupled with a 6 speed manual transmission was a pleasure to drive as we weaved our way along the mountain roads of our test route. Torque delivery was consistent and effortless throughout the test drive. At our midway point we swapped across to the 1.2L PureTech 110 paired with the 6 speed automatic EAT6 gearbox. The automatic transmission is perfectly capable. Under heavy acceleration it does rev out quite high but at urban speeds it delivers flawlessly. It is only when you push on with the PureTech engine that you actually remember or are reminded that you are driving a three-cylinder engine but it settles into a great rhythm as it powers on.
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine is available with three power outputs also; 75 bhp, 100 bhp and 120 bhp. Again these are paired with 5 and 6 speed manual and automatic transmissions. All three engines offer excellent torque. The biggest surprise was that the 75bhp engine delivers the same torque as the top spec petrol variant. It delivers power effortlessly and is perfectly mated with the 5 speed manual transmission. Both the 110 bhp and 130 bhp engines offer increased torque levels while all of the diesel engine variants deliver CO2 emissions below 100 grams per kilometre. In terms of driving, there are very few changes in relation to the chassis or suspension setups and as a result the 2008 drives as well as it ever did. I have no doubt that this new model of the 2008 will continue the success of the outgoing model.
The new Peugeot 2008 is expected in Ireland for July and pricing is due to be announced in the coming weeks. The full technical specification will also be available once we get the 2008 on Irish soil for an extended test drive.
