Summarize

We have long loved Peugeot’s SUV twins and now the French carmaker has made the 2008 even cooler. 140mm longer than its predecessor and 20mm lower, the new 2008 is now only 150mm shorter than big brother 3008, while a 60mm longer wheelbase boosts boot space by 10 litres while also increasing rear passenger legroom.

Sitting on Peugeot’s front-wheel drive Common Modular Platform architecture shared with the 208 and Opel Corsa supermini twins, new 2008 will launch with a familiar line-up of PSA combustion engines along with an electric powertrain for the first time, all also to be had with an optional Grip Control traction control. 

The 1.2-litre, turbo triple petrol comes in 75, 95 and 125kW outputs in either 6-speed manual or eight-speed automatics, while a 75kW 1.5-litre turbodiesel four pot gets a six-speed manual. The electric e-2008 is powered by a 100kW 275Nm motor, fed by a 50kWh battery good for a 300km range, chargeable to 80% in 30 minutes using a 100kW rapid charger. Two regenerative braking settings give the option of greater energy recovery or a more petrol-like driving.

Inside, Peugeot’s latest and even cooler i-cockpit retains a small steering wheel and broad infotainment display and adds a three-dimensional digital instrument cluster with speed and safety information projected like a hologram above the regular cluster to improve driver reaction. Add Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging and in GT-Line and GT models, alcantara and leather trim, customisable ambient lighting and 18in alloy wheels.

Expect adaptive cruise control with lane assist, park assist and autonomous emergency braking when the range hits SA early 2020.