Peugeot 2008

The Peugeot 2008 is a B-segment SUV (also categorised as a compact crossover) from French automaker Peugeot. First unveiled as a concept car in 2013, it serves as the entry-level SUV offering in the brand's lineup. For the Chinese domestic market, Dongfeng Peugeot launched the all-new generation 2008 on 20 May 2020, offering five petrol variants priced between RM109,900 and RM149,900; the all-electric e2008 was introduced concurrently, carrying a post-subsidy price tag ranging from RM166,000 to RM188,000. Competing in the B-SUV segment against rivals such as the Nissan Kicks and Chevrolet Tracker, the 2008 primarily targets younger buyers.

Design Language

The Peugeot 2008 showcases the brand's latest signature design language. The front fascia is dominated by a large shield-shaped radiator grille, flanked by lion-claw LED headlamps and distinctive "sabre tooth" LED daytime running lights (DRLs), delivering an aggressive and instantly recognisable face. Along the sides, a floating roof design pairs with two-tone five-spoke alloy wheels for a sleek, sporty stance. At the rear, a gloss black strip connects the smoked lion-claw LED taillights, accentuating the taut, sculpted proportions for a planted and muscular aesthetic. In terms of dimensions, the vehicle measures 4,312 mm long, 1,785 mm wide, and 1,545 mm tall, with a 2,612 mm wheelbase. Inside, the 2008 features Peugeot's proprietary "3D i-Cockpit" immersive layout. The multi-tiered dashboard places a driver-oriented 10-inch touchscreen infotainment display at centre stage. A compact, flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel with paddle shifters comes standard across the range, while higher-spec variants gain a 3D digital instrument cluster with holographic heads-up projection. The cabin exudes an intensely futuristic, avant-garde vibe.

Powertrain and Performance

The petrol-powered Peugeot 2008 is motivated by a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine (230THP). It churns out 136 PS (100 kW) and 230 Nm of peak torque, paired with a 6-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The century sprint from 0-100 km/h is dispatched in roughly 10 seconds. The pure-electric e2008 employs a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor producing 120 kW and 260 Nm of torque, drawing power from a 45.24 kWh ternary lithium battery pack to deliver up to 360 km of range on the NEDC cycle. In international markets, electrified hybrid variants are also available. The 2025 model year is slated to feature a 48V mild-hybrid setup, while the next-generation 2008 (codenamed P34) arriving in 2026 will offer both MHEV mild-hybrid and full BEV pure-electric powertrains.

Ride and Handling

Underpinning the Peugeot 2008 is the PSA Group's Common Modular Platform (CMP). The suspension setup comprises MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear—a standard configuration for B-segment crossovers. Peugeot’s chassis tuning prowess is fully evident here, leaning towards a taut, European firm setup that provides crisp road feedback. Body control and weight transfer during high-speed lane changes are well-managed, accompanied by reassuring rear-end stability through corners. The steering is light and direct, which, when combined with the petite steering wheel, makes low-speed city manoeuvres effortless. Stopping power is courtesy of disc brakes all around.

Cabin and Equipment

Inside, the Peugeot 2008 comes standard with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment unit and a multi-function steering wheel. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Baidu CarLife smartphone connectivity. Higher-spec variants add a panoramic glass roof, keyless entry with push-start button, and 17- or 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels. The cabin accommodates five passengers in a 2+3 seating configuration, offering 345 litres of boot capacity in default layout. The rear bench features a split-folding mechanism for added versatility. An electronic parking brake (EPB), automatic engine start-stop, and hill-start assist are standard fitments. However, power-adjustable front seats are notably absent across the entire lineup.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, all Peugeot 2008 variants come standard with an array of electronic driver aids, including ABS with EBD, Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TCS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Passive safety kit includes dual front and front side airbags as standard, with full-length curtain airbags reserved exclusively for the flagship trim. Higher-spec models benefit from advanced active safety features such as low-speed Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Assist (LDA), and High Beam Assist (HBA). A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is standard across the board. For parking assistance, rear parking sensors are fitted as standard, whilst a reverse camera is included on higher grades.

Market Performance and Reception

The Peugeot 2008's robust global reception stands in stark contrast to its performance in China. Globally, sales hit 215,000 units in 2024, representing a 5% year-on-year increase and cementing its status as one of Peugeot's top-selling models worldwide. In China, however, the 2008 struggled right from its 2020 launch, languishing at monthly sales of just 100 to 200 units, often slipping below double digits for months on end. Total sales in 2024 amounted to a dismal 314 units, with 2025 cumulative figures dropping further to just 43 units.

Market analysts attribute the 2008's sluggish performance in China to several key factors: first, widespread consumer scepticism towards 3-cylinder engines and dual-clutch gearboxes; second, an ambitious price bracket of RM109,900 to RM149,900 that overlapped directly with larger C-segment crossovers like the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai ix35; and third, fierce competition from both aggressive Chinese domestic marques and entrenched Japanese/German rivals. While the 2008 garnered widespread praise for its striking styling, premium cabin feel, and refined road manners, a product strategy out of sync with Chinese market preferences ultimately sealed its fate. As of April 2026, the 2026 Peugeot 2008 lineup in Taiwan has introduced the 48V mild-hybrid GT Pack variant.