Peugeot 2008 Review: A Stylish Small SUV That Commands Attention — and a Premium
The small SUV segment is one of the most fiercely competitive in the automotive world, packed with capable, well-rounded machines fighting for buyers' attention and budgets. Into this crowded arena steps the Peugeot 2008, a crossover that dares to do things differently. With striking looks, a carefully crafted interior, and a range of efficient powertrains, the 2008 makes a compelling case for itself. But with a price point that edges toward the upper end of its class, the question every potential buyer must ask is simple: does the Peugeot 2008 deliver enough to justify the cost?
In this comprehensive Peugeot 2008 review, we break down everything you need to know — from design and driving dynamics to technology, practicality, and real-world value — so you can make an informed decision.
Design and Exterior Styling
If you want a small SUV that turns heads, the Peugeot 2008 delivers in spades. Peugeot has long had a reputation for producing cars that punch well above their weight in the style department, and the 2008 is no exception. Its sharp, sculpted bodywork features bold creases, slim LED daytime running lights, and a distinctive front grille that gives the car an assertive, almost feline face. From certain angles, it genuinely looks more expensive than its asking price would suggest — which is either a clever design trick or a mild irony, depending on your perspective.
The 2008 sits on a raised platform typical of the crossover format, giving it a sense of presence on the road without veering into full SUV territory. Available in a range of sophisticated colour options, it's a car that rewards personalisation and consistently attracts admiring glances in car parks and on the road alike.
Interior Quality and Comfort
Step inside the Peugeot 2008 and the first impression is genuinely impressive. Peugeot has invested considerable effort into making the cabin feel premium, and it shows. Soft-touch materials are used in key touch points, the dashboard layout is clean and modern, and the overall sense of build quality is notably good for this segment. The brand's signature i-Cockpit setup — featuring a compact steering wheel and a raised digital instrument cluster — gives the interior a sporty, futuristic feel that sets it apart from more conventional rivals.
The 10-inch central touchscreen is intuitive and responsive, handling navigation, media, and connectivity functions with ease. Physical shortcut buttons below the screen reduce the need to dig through menus while driving, which is a thoughtful touch that many brands have abandoned in pursuit of minimalism. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across most trim levels, keeping tech-savvy buyers satisfied.
Comfort levels in the front are excellent. The seats are well-shaped and supportive, and there's a good range of adjustment available. Rear passenger space is adequate for the class, though taller adults may find long journeys a little snug. The boot offers a respectable amount of cargo space, making the 2008 a practical choice for daily use and weekend trips alike.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Peugeot 2008 is available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, as well as a fully electric variant — the e-2008 — which extends its appeal to environmentally conscious buyers. The petrol lineup is headlined by a 1.2-litre PureTech turbocharged three-cylinder engine in various states of tune, delivering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency that suits the car's urban and suburban character well.
On the road, the 2008 feels composed and confident. Steering is light and accurate, making it easy to manoeuvre in tight city streets, while motorway cruising is relaxed thanks to decent refinement levels. It isn't the most dynamically exciting car in its class — buyers seeking a more driver-focused experience might look elsewhere — but for the majority of small SUV buyers who prioritise comfort and ease over outright engagement, the 2008 strikes a sensible balance.
The electric e-2008 deserves special mention. With a claimed range of around 200 miles and brisk acceleration from its electric motor, it transforms the 2008 into a genuinely modern, zero-emission proposition. Charging times are reasonable, and the driving experience is smooth and refined in a way that suits the car's character perfectly.
How Does It Compare to Rivals?
This is where the Peugeot 2008 faces its toughest scrutiny. The small SUV market is home to formidable competitors, including the Volkswagen T-Cross, SEAT Arona, Nissan Juke, and Ford Puma, all of which offer strong value propositions in their own right. The 2008 competes well on style and interior quality, but its pricing does sit slightly above some of these alternatives when comparing equivalent specifications.
Buyers who place a high premium on design and cabin ambiance will find the 2008 hard to beat. Those who are more focused on maximising value for money may find that rivals such as the Ford Puma or SEAT Arona offer a more compelling financial argument, even if they can't quite match the Peugeot's flair.
Technology and Safety
The Peugeot 2008 comes equipped with a solid suite of safety and driver assistance technologies, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and driver attention monitoring. Higher trim levels add features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, bringing the safety package up to a commendably modern standard. Euro NCAP has awarded the 2008 a five-star safety rating, which provides additional peace of mind for family buyers.
Verdict: Should You Buy the Peugeot 2008?
The Peugeot 2008 is a well-executed, fashionable small SUV that genuinely earns its place in a tough market. Its design is genuinely distinctive, its interior quality is among the best in class, and its range of powertrains — including the capable e-2008 — means there is a version to suit most buyers. Refinement, comfort, and technology are all handled with confidence, making it an easy car to live with day to day.
The main caveat is cost. The 2008 does feel a touch expensive when placed side by side with some of its closest rivals, and buyers on tighter budgets may find that those alternatives offer strong competition at a lower price point. However, if style, build quality, and a premium cabin experience matter to you — and for many buyers in this segment, they absolutely do — the Peugeot 2008 makes a strong, persuasive case for itself.
- Pros: Striking design, high-quality interior, strong electric variant, good safety ratings, intuitive technology.
- Cons: Slightly pricey versus rivals, rear passenger space could be better, three-cylinder engines can feel vocal under hard acceleration.
Ultimately, the Peugeot 2008 is a smart, stylish choice for buyers who want a small SUV that feels genuinely special — provided they are prepared to pay a modest premium for the privilege. In a segment where conformity is common, the 2008's willingness to stand out is, in itself, a significant selling point.