Skip advert
Advertisement

New Peugeot 2008 prototype review

We drive three early versions of the new Peugeot 2008 SUV, including the all-electric e-2008

We were invited to Peugeot HQ on the outskirts of Paris to drive early prototype versions of the new Peugeot 2008 SUV with all three powertrains.

It certainly feels more like an SUV from behind the wheel with the large bonnet and high-up driving position (although you actually sit lower than in the old car). The new 3D iCockpit is a highlight, prioritising information at the front of the display. However, the old iCockpit foibles, fixed in the latest large Peugeots, return in the 2008. If you sit low and have the small steering wheel high, it obscures some of the display – annoyingly so. It’s a shame, because otherwise the interior is another spectacular design from Peugeot.

Advertisement - Article continues below

New 2019 Peugeot 2008 SUV moves upmarket

First up is a 128bhp 1.5-litre diesel – an engine that won’t feature in the UK. According to Peugeot’s engineers, there’s still plenty of tuning to be done on the new CMP chassis, with settings based on the already launched DS3 Crossback that shares the same platform.

It’s not a bad place to start with decent body control and a firm, but comfortable ride from this model on its 17-inch alloys, shod with chunky all-season tyres, as this car came with optional grip control. However, both ride and body control are earmarked for improvement and will be worked on in the coming months.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

Range Rover Evoque

2018 Land Rover

Range Rover Evoque

22,196 milesAutomaticDiesel2.0L

Cash £19,787
View Range Rover Evoque
Corsa

2022 Vauxhall

Corsa

11,970 milesAutomaticPetrol1.2L

Cash £14,700
View Corsa
Puma

2023 Ford

Puma

29,225 milesManualPetrol1.0L

Cash £13,900
View Puma
Golf

2024 Volkswagen

Golf

30,377 milesManualPetrol1.5L

Cash £16,000
View Golf

The gear changes will be smoothed out slightly – good job, too – but the ingredients are certainly there.

The petrol-engined GT model with 153bhp needs a bit more work. Its ride was bumpier (on 18-inch wheels), the steering lighter and a fair amount of wind noise present, too. It didn’t feel especially quick, either, even when Sport mode was selected, which will improve throttle response and weight-up steering.

At the test track, the new e-2008 was waiting for us. As with the smaller e-208, it uses an electrified version of the CMP chassis with a 50kWh battery pack between in front of and behind the rear axle and a 134bhp electric motor. This car was more production ready, we were told, and it felt it.

The ride was better, the car cornered flatly and the steering was more linear. Alongside a Hyundai Kona Electric, it felt like a next-generation electric car – far more mature in its drive and its interior.

There’s only one level of regenerative braking you can select, though, which might not shock first-time EV drivers as much, but may disappoint those who like drive with one pedal for longer and feel like there’s energy going back into the battery at every opportunity.

The e-2008 lacked the instant kick of acceleration rivals offer. Even in Sport mode, throttle response is good, but not up to other EV standards, while its range of 193 miles is a bit disappointing, too.

Peugeot claims that most people will accept the range on offer and instead be swayed by the style, quality and comfort of the e-2008 – and we can’t deny that it scores highly on those points.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Steve Fowler has previously edited Auto Express, Carbuyer, DrivingElectric, What Car?, Autocar and What Hi-Fi? and has been writing about cars for the best part of 30 years. 

New & used car deals

Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,952
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,192 off RRP*Used from £20,921
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £11,995
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,200
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month
Volkswagen Golf GTI - front cornering left 1

Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month

The Golf GTI has been a classic from day one – and it’s our Deal of the Day for 8 July.
News
8 Jul 2025