Peugeot 2008 Review: A Fashionable Small SUV That Comes at a Cost
The small SUV segment is one of the most hotly contested in the automotive world, and Peugeot has staked a bold claim with the 2008. Combining eye-catching French styling with a well-crafted interior and a broad range of powertrains, the Peugeot 2008 positions itself as one of the more desirable options in its class. But with rivals offering similar — and sometimes superior — value at a lower price point, is the 2008 truly worth your money? In this comprehensive review, we break down everything you need to know before making a decision.
Design and Exterior Styling
If there is one area where the Peugeot 2008 unquestionably leads the pack, it is design. The 2008 draws heavily from Peugeot's wider design language — sharp creases, bold LED lighting signatures, and a sleek, coupe-inspired roofline give it a presence that few rivals can match at this price point. The front fascia features the brand's distinctive fang-style daytime running lights, flanking a prominent grille that communicates a sense of premium intent.
Available in a wide variety of bold colours and with an array of optional two-tone roof finishes, the 2008 allows buyers to personalise their car in a way that feels genuinely expressive. Whether you're after something understated or a model that turns heads on the school run, the 2008 has the aesthetic range to deliver. This is a car that looks more expensive than its price tag suggests — and that is a significant part of its appeal.
Interior Quality and Technology
Step inside the Peugeot 2008 and the quality of materials is immediately apparent. Soft-touch surfaces, metallic accents, and carefully considered layout choices elevate the cabin experience well above what you might expect from a mainstream small SUV. Peugeot's i-Cockpit design philosophy is on full display here — a compact, sporty steering wheel sits below a raised digital instrument cluster, creating a genuinely driver-focused environment that feels distinctive and modern.
The central infotainment touchscreen is responsive and cleanly designed, though some users may find the system's reliance on touch-sensitive controls for climate and audio functions a little frustrating in day-to-day use. Physical buttons have been largely replaced by capacitive strips, which can require slightly more visual attention than traditional switches when driving.
In terms of space, the 2008 is reasonably practical for its segment. Rear passengers get adequate legroom for shorter journeys, though taller adults may find headroom a touch limited thanks to the sloping roofline. Boot space is competitive, with a 434-litre load capacity in standard form — enough for a weekly shop or a weekend break's worth of luggage.
Powertrain Options and Driving Experience
The Peugeot 2008 is offered with a choice of petrol, diesel, and fully electric powertrains, giving buyers significant flexibility depending on their driving habits and budget.
- Petrol engines: The core of the range is built around Peugeot's 1.2-litre PureTech three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine in various power outputs. It is a willing and generally smooth unit, though it can feel slightly strained at higher revs and has in the past been associated with reliability concerns in earlier generations.
- Diesel: A 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel option is available for higher-mileage drivers who prioritise fuel economy. It delivers strong mid-range torque and impressive efficiency, making it well-suited for longer motorway runs.
- Electric (e-2008): The fully electric variant, badged e-2008, is arguably the most compelling powertrain in the lineup. With a usable range of around 200 miles on a full charge and instant electric torque, the e-2008 transforms the driving experience — and makes the 2008's premium pricing far easier to justify.
On the road, all variants of the 2008 acquit themselves well in urban and suburban environments. The ride is comfortable, if occasionally firm over sharper imperfections, and the steering is light and accurate. It is not a car that demands to be driven hard, but it handles everyday duties with confidence and composure.
How Does It Compare to Rivals?
This is where the Peugeot 2008's most significant challenge lies. The small SUV market is flooded with strong contenders — the Volkswagen T-Cross, SEAT Arona, Renault Captur, and Hyundai Kona all offer competitive packages, and several of them undercut the 2008 on price while matching or exceeding it in terms of practicality and technology.
The Renault Captur, for instance, offers a plug-in hybrid option and a genuinely spacious interior at a comparable or lower price. The Hyundai Kona delivers exceptional build quality and a long warranty as standard. Against these alternatives, the 2008's premium can feel harder to defend unless you are specifically drawn to its distinctive French style.
Verdict: Should You Buy the Peugeot 2008?
The Peugeot 2008 is a genuinely impressive small SUV in many respects. It is among the best-looking cars in its class, it is well-constructed, and it drives with enough polish to satisfy the majority of buyers. The electric e-2008 variant in particular stands out as a strong product in its own right.
However, it is hard to ignore the fact that the 2008 asks a little more of your budget than some of its closest rivals without always offering a proportional advantage in return. If style and brand identity are high on your priority list, the 2008 will reward you handsomely. If you are shopping purely on value for money, it is worth cross-shopping carefully before committing.
Ultimately, the Peugeot 2008 is a car for buyers who appreciate good design and are willing to pay a modest premium for it — and there is nothing wrong with that at all.