Peugeot 2008 (2013-2020) Review

Compact, comfy and stylish, the 2008 offers an affordable way to get a high-riding 'crossover' with low second-hand pricing

Strengths & weaknesses

Peugeot 2008 prices from £7,995   Finance from £136.17 per month

The previous-generation Peugeot 2008 was one of the initial wave of small crossovers that made their way onto the market at the beginning of the 2010s. After the Nissan Juke pioneered this new-look high-riding supermini class and proved its popularity, every manufacturer under the sun decided they had to get in on the action.

Along with the 2008, rivals included the Juke, the Renault Captur, Ford EcoSport, Vauxhall Mokka X and the Citroen C4 Cactus. The idea is that these cars offer all the practicality and ease of use of a small family hatchback, while also delivering a confidence inspiring driving position that's much higher than a standard Peugeot 208 or Renault Clio.

The 2008 is built upon the same platform as the 208,  so while it may appear much larger thanks to its bulky crossover styling, the 2008 is actually only 20cm longer and 10cm taller than the 208. It's exactly the same width as that compact supermini, so there's no risk of feeling like your at the helm of something much larger. It should prove just as easy to drive around town and park.

In terms of styling, the newer models from Peugeot including the new 2008 are much sharper and more distinctive to look at, but post-2016 models did at least get some aesthetic improvements from the orignal's slightly drab look to make them look more crisp and modern. These later models also benefit from a selection of more efficient diesel engines too.

Once you get it on the road, the 2008 can feel a little fidgety and bouncy over the worst roads. It’s not the most composed car of its type, but it does corner securely and comes with an unusually small steering wheel while its soft suspension prioritises comfort over sportiness. It’s best on the motorway where six-speed manual and automatic versions cruise quietly and comfortably.

Being a crossover means the 2008 has a reasonably spacious cabin although be careful when choosing one with the glass sunroof because it eats into how much headroom there is. Fortunately, there’s plenty of room for tall occupants in the front. The boot is average for the class but can be boosted by dropping the split-fold rear seats, which creates a completely flat load floor accessed via a low loading lip at the back. There’s space under the floor, too.

Other Editions

2008 (2020)

Peugeot’s new 2008 crossover makes a compelling case for itself with striking looks and interior and the option of all-electric motoring