A Test Drive of Peugeot's 2008, Launched into the Fiercely Competitive Compact SUV Market

PEUGEOT 2008 Allure | Peugeot 2008 Allure

Test Drive: Peugeot's 2008, a Compact SUV from the French Lion

Amidst a period of significant transformation in the automotive world, marked by the merger of PSA and FCA to form the Stellantis Group and the refresh of the lion-motif logo, Peugeot is entering a new phase. To assess the capabilities of the 2008, launched in September 2020 into the fiercely competitive compact SUV market, we test-drove the entry-grade "Allure" gasoline engine model.

Text & Photographs by HARA Akira

The Compact SUV Market: From Renault Captur to Yaris Cross

Peugeot recently refreshed its brand logo. The lion motif has been a constant since 1850, with the current iteration debuting in 2010. According to the online presentation of the new logo, Peugeot has dedicated the past decade to enhancing its brand's premium image. In response to the formation of the Stellantis Group through the PSA-FCA merger and the wave of electrification sweeping the automotive industry, the brand is transitioning to a new logo as a symbol of its entry into the next phase.

Peugeot's 2008, Launched into the Fiercely Competitive Compact SUV Market | PEUGEOT — New Logo Unveiled Online

Specifically, the lion previously depicted in full profile has been updated to a new logo, the 11th generation, featuring only the head in profile. The new logo is being rolled out across customer touchpoints, including the website and dealerships, and will appear on vehicle emblems starting with the new "308," scheduled for release this year.

In September 2020, Peugeot entered the highly competitive compact SUV segment with the "Peugeot 2008," which we test-drove. With dimensions slightly exceeding the B-segment at 4,305mm long, 1,770mm wide, and 1,550mm high, it faces stiff competition from rivals such as the Renault Captur, launched in February this year, the Volkswagen T-Cross and T-Roc, the Toyota Yaris Cross and Nissan Kicks from Japan, and the soon-to-be-launched Honda Vezel.

The 2008 utilizes the "CMP (Common Modular Platform)" for gasoline models and the "e-CMP" for electric models. The lineup includes gasoline engine models and a pure EV model. The "2008" (¥3,020,000 - ¥3,410,000) is powered by a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder gasoline turbo engine producing 96kW (130ps) and 230Nm, while the EV model, the "e-2008" (¥4,310,000 - ¥4,700,000), features a 100kW (136ps) and 260Nm electric motor. Both models are available in GT and Allure trims.

Aggressive Exterior and Avant-Garde Interior

The exterior features striking design elements, such as the fang-like daytime running lights at the front corners, reminiscent of the brand's lion emblem, and the three-claw design of the rear lights.

While the headlights on higher trims also adopt the three-claw design, the Allure model features a more understated dual-LED setup. The body sides have deep, half-diamond-shaped indentations front and rear, and the window line rises sharply towards the rear.

The combination of large-diameter tires (215/60R17) providing a high ground clearance (205mm) and a low roof height (1,550mm) that fits within multi-story parking garages creates a rather aggressive stance.

The interior exudes an even more avant-garde atmosphere, thanks to the new "3D i-Cockpit." This system evolves Peugeot's signature "i-Cockpit," which features a small, horizontally flattened steering wheel with the instrument cluster positioned above it, a design carried over from the previous generation.

This already innovative layout has been further enhanced. Within the 3D instrument cluster, the fuel gauge and odometer are displayed on the left, while the water temperature gauge and shift position appear on the right. The central area features a digital speedometer and analog tachometer, with the tachometer appearing to float in three dimensions, projected from the top of the cluster.

Whether this display is easily readable is debatable, but it certainly makes a strong impression on both the driver and passengers. Additionally, the sides of the instrument cluster feature triangular cutouts, allowing ambient light to enter the display area at certain angles, which may be a design-driven choice.

The shift lever for the Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission boasts a premium design, suitable for higher-class vehicles, and offers user-friendly operation with a push for Reverse and pull for Drive. Below the 7-inch touchscreen, which integrates with smartphones, are piano-key-like buttons for climate control and hazard lights, with a Qi-compatible charging box located beneath them.

The seats are upholstered in a combination of black fabric and synthetic leather, offering a firm feel. The wheelbase of 2,610mm provides ample rear legroom, and the trunk, with its wide opening, offers 434 liters of space. The floorboard can be set at two different heights, and folding the 60:40 split rear seats creates a flat and expansive 1,467-liter cargo area.

The "Magic Carpet Ride" Ride Quality of French Cars is a Thing of the Past

How does the front-wheel-drive performance of the 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder engine with 130ps and 230Nm feel? The excellent control of the 8-speed automatic transmission makes starting in the city and accelerating/decelerating at low to medium speeds smooth and very pleasant. Drive modes can be switched between Eco, Normal, and Sport using buttons on the center console, and paddle shifters are available on the steering wheel.

When accelerating strongly, a characteristic vibration from the 3-cylinder engine can be felt, but it's only noticeable if you're actively listening for it. During normal driving, it's not a distracting level.

While the small steering wheel initially felt unusual, once accustomed to it, the quick handling becomes enjoyable, allowing for precise line selection.

The suspension is set to be firm, effectively controlling body roll and pitch while leveraging the rigid body structure. While some may miss the "magic carpet ride" feel of older French cars, contemporary French vehicles now feature a standard setup that meets global standards.

The driver assistance systems are comprehensive, including Active Safety Brake with pedestrian, cyclist, and night detection via various sensors, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with stop & go function operating from 0 to 180 km/h, and Lane Positioning Assist for steering correction, reflecting modern vehicle capabilities.

The higher-spec GT model is equipped with Advanced Grip Control for various terrains like snow, sand, and mud, as well as Hill Descent Control for maintaining a constant speed on steep descents. However, if these features are not essential, the 2008 Allure presents a compelling choice.