Refresh for small SUV brings hybrid power and a longer range for the electric version On sale Summer Price from £25,000 (est)
Alasdair Rodden alasdair.rodden@haymarket.com
WHETHER IT’S A film trilogy or Neapolitan ice cream, some things are better when they come in threes.The updated Peugeot 2008 small SUV might well be the latest addition to that list, because it’s soon to be offered with a choice of petrol, hybrid or fully electric power.
Joining the 2008 line-up for the first time is a hybrid version, powered by a new-generation 134bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine and an electric motor that’s integrated into a new six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
This system is designed to improve efficiency around town, with a claimed 15% reduction in fuel consumption. Like many other regular hybrids, this 2008 can run on electric power alone for short distances at low speeds. It will go on sale next year.
Meanwhile, the fully electric e-2008 benefits from a new, more powerful electric motor (up from 134bhp to 154bhp) and a larger battery (with a total capacity of 54kWh rather than 50kWh). As a result, the new e-2008 has an official range of up to 252 miles (versus 212 miles previously).
When it comes to charging, the e-2008 can accept power at rates of up to 100kW (unchanged from the outgoing model); this means a 10-80% top-up will take around 30 minutes via a suitably powerful public rapid charger. Using a 7kW home wallbox, a full charge takes around seven and a half hours.
As before, the regular petrol engines consist of 99bhp and 129bhp 1.2s.The former comes exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the latter also offers the option of an eight-speed automatic ’box.
The 129bhp version – which we praised for its punchy performance and impressive fuel economy – was the most popular choice in the outgoing car, although we found that the automatic ’box wasn’t the smoothest.
Changes to the 2008’s design start with the introduction of the brand’s new badge, as seen already on the Peugeot 308 family hatchback and 408 executive car.
At the front, every 2008 now gets three vertical LED daytime running lights on each side, rather than single strips, while range-topping GT models come with full LED headlights. At the rear, the lights are now made up of six horizontal LED strips.The ‘Peugeot’ name is spelt across the tailgate more prominently than before and th
