Peugeot 2008 review

Car-enthusiast OCD sufferers look away now: contrary to its name, the Peugeot 2008 was, in fact, first released in 2013. However, its name does at least give a clue towards what it is.

Like the first generation 2008, it's based on – and shares many mechanical parts with – the Peugeot 208, which is the French brand’s rival to the likes of the Volkswagen Polo. Those underpinnings been stretched and enlarged to turn the 208 into a small SUV, and, fittingly, its name has been extended to suit.

The original 2008 soon found popularity, and this second-generation version appears greatly improved. A generous increase in length has substantially increased rear-seat space, while boot space has marginally grown. Fresh design inside and out brings it in line with Peugeot’s latest models, helping it stand out from bland rivals like a mug of Rooibos tea at a greasy spoon cafe.

Size-wise, its dimensions make it one of the biggest in the small SUV class. It rivals everything from the Seat Arona, Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Skoda Kamiq to the Volkswagen T-Roc and T-Cross, and the Audi Q2.

The 2008 is available with a familiar lineup of petrol and diesel engines that have been seen before in other Peugeot models, plus there’s a fully electric e-2008 version that we’ve reviewed separately.  

This review will focus on the petrol and diesel versions, and we’ll explain the best choices if a 2008 takes your fancy. And, whichever car you decide on, head over to our New Car Buying pages for a great, hassle-free deal.