If you're looking for a compact SUV that combines style, technology, and practicality, you might want to take a look at the Peugeot 2008. This French model has been a success in Europe, where it competes with rivals like the Volkswagen T-Roc, the Ford Puma, and the Renault Captur. But could it also make a splash in the US market, where Peugeot plans to return by 2023?
The Peugeot 2008 is based on the same platform as the Peugeot 208, a subcompact hatchback that won the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 2020. The 2008 shares many of the 208's design cues, such as the distinctive front grille, the LED daytime running lights, and the claw-shaped taillights. The 2008 also adds some SUV elements, such as black plastic cladding, roof rails, and a raised ground clearance.
The interior of the Peugeot 2008 is equally impressive, with a modern and minimalist dashboard that features a digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen infotainment system. The materials are high-quality and soft to the touch, and the seats are comfortable and supportive. The Peugeot 2008 also offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo, with a generous rear legroom and a trunk capacity of 14.3 cubic feet (expandable to 43.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded).
One of the most appealing aspects of the Peugeot 2008 is its range of powertrain options. The 2008 is available with gasoline, diesel, or electric engines, depending on the market. The gasoline engines include a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder that produces either 99 hp, 128 hp, or 153 hp, depending on the trim level. The diesel engine is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder that delivers 99 hp or 128 hp. The electric engine is a 50 kWh battery that powers a 134 hp electric motor.
The Peugeot 2008 offers a smooth and refined driving experience, regardless of the engine choice. The gasoline and diesel engines are responsive and efficient, with an estimated fuel economy of up to 49 mpg (combined) for the gasoline versions and up to 62 mpg (combined) for the diesel versions (based on European testing standards). The electric engine is quiet and zippy, with an estimated range of up to 206 miles (based on WLTP standards) and a fast-charging capability that can replenish up to 80% of the battery in just 30 minutes.
The Peugeot 2008 also comes with many safety and convenience features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, parking sensors, reversing camera, wireless smartphone charging, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more.
The Peugeot 2008 is not yet available in the US market, but it could be one of the models that Peugeot will bring when it returns to America by 2023. The price of the Peugeot 2008 in Europe starts from around $24,000 for the base gasoline model and goes up to around $40,000 for the top-of-the-line electric model (converted from euros). That puts it in line with other compact SUVs in the US market, such as the Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, or the Hyundai Tucson.
The Peugeot 2008 is a compelling option for anyone looking for a compact SUV that offers style, technology, practicality, and efficiency. It has been well-received by critics and customers alike in Europe, where it has won several awards and accolades. It could also be a hit in America if Peugeot manages to overcome the challenges of re-entering a competitive market after decades of absence.
If you're curious about what Peugeot offers in terms of SUVs, consider checking out their website or visiting one of their dealerships when they arrive in America. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you find.
