Peugeot is under the impression that traditional hatch buyers may be getting a tad bored with the segment. Not necessarily the small and agile nature of these bootless compact models, but perhaps the slightly limited practicality and urban-bound functionality of them. Of course, the not-insignificant growth of the SUV segment in Europe and China, as well as the relative success of models like the Nissan Juke and Opel Mokka, have suggested to this French manufacturer that there may be an opportunity to offer customers the same compact, agile, and free-spirited character of a B-segment hatch, but in a slightly more versatile and robust package.
Slightly more butch looks
Based on the same platform as the recently introduced 208 hatch, the 2008 gains a longer wheelbase (by 200 mm), 25 mm worth of additional ground clearance (to 160 mm) and is 96 mm taller than its sibling. While I would have liked to see a bit more flaring of- or even the addition of heavy-duty cladding onto the new squared-off wheel arches (ala Nissan Juke) the overall impression of the 2008 is that it has enough attitude, complete with standard roof rails, chrome detailing, and barge boards (front and rear) to make it stand out from the crowd. Ultimately the 2008 probably won’t be seen to be as funky or anti-establishment as the Juke, but in true Peugeot-style, the French model arguably boasts a touch more elegance and sophistication than its Japanese rival. Not mentioned as a direct rival at the international launch but in South African terms the 2008 could well find itself up against the likes of Volkswagen’s CrossPolo in a comparison test.
Thankfully, unlike the Mitsubishi-blended 4008, the 2008 is all-Peugeot, which is to say it comes complete with the latest incarnation of what is a very nicely conceptualised and by all accounts well put-together interior. The driving position is taller than that of the standard 208 allowing not only for improved visibility out of the cabin, but also for Peugeot’s much maligned new instrument cluster layout to be better appreciated. Despite how the company would like you to drive its new products (essentially no longer looking through the steering wheel at the instruments but rather over the rim) many a tester has found themselves compromised in terms of comfort in trying to honour this innovative new layout. In the 2008, while sitting comfortably taller than in other models you begin to understand the rational behind this thinking.
A feature of the new 208 range, and one especially appreciated in the new 208 GTi (look out for an upcoming driving impression) is the small diameter steering wheel. While the relatively thick, leather-bound rim fits nicely to hand and helps make the 208 range feel that much more agile around town, it should be noted that in the taller-bodied 2008 the smaller circumference of this wheel also makes the car a touch more sensitive to small inputs – particularly at highway cruising speed
While Peugeot’s impressive Grip Control system, which, using the traction control, varies the torque split between the front wheels for optimised grip in slippery conditions, looks unlikely to make its way to the South African market (the true benefit of this system are enjoyed by snow-bound Europeans) the 2008 nevertheless gains a more chunky, knuckle-shaped, handbrake lever to add a touch of butch to the cabin.
Spacious cabin
Rear leg- and headroom comfort is good (helped by a contoured roof lining) and on first impressions the 2008 will have the measure of its rivals in terms of luggage capacity. If I had one gripe about the cabin of both the 208 GTi and the 2008 is that the consideration of an optional panoramic sunroof in each of these models has meant that the standard (thinner) roof lining no longer has place for the fitment of passenger grab handles – a feature that could come in, um, handy in both applications.
While PSA South Africa is still considering which of the eight available drivetrain options will best suit our market, expect to see a version of the 1,6-litre VTi (mated with a six-speed manual transmission) and (hopefully) a 1,6-litre e-HDi diesel model at JIMS later this year.
Punchy 1,6-litre turbodiesel
With 84 kW and 270 N.m of torque (available at 1 750 r/min) driving the e-HDi-powered 2008 around the stunning Alsace region of France proved as enjoyable as it was challenging. Weighing around 1 180 kilograms (depending on ultimate spec) the 2008 remained agile around tight and twisty mountain passes while the inevitable body roll from the taller stance was largely factored out by the impressively compliant suspension. This same suspension (combined with 16-inch tyres on my test unit) on the open road should easily give the 2008 a further advantage over its segment rivals come comparison test time.
I was pleasantly surprised by the precision offered by the six-speed manual transmission and there was just enough low-down torque on offer to avoid that extra downshift when exiting tight corners.
The 2008 is destined to be an important model for Peugeot. Not least as it seeks to capture the imagination (and ultimately the purchasing signature) of a buying public that expects a bit more from their everyday hatchback. While it remains to be seen at what price PSA South Africa will be able bring the 2008 in at, expect this new compact crossover to further enhance Peugeot’s growing reputation for impressive quality and innovative thinking.
Fast facts
Peugeot 2008 1,6 e-HDi
Engine 1 560 cm3, 4-cylinder turbodiesel
Power 84 kW @ 3 600 r/min
Torque 270 N.m @ 1 750 r/min
0-100 km/h 10,4 seconds*
Top speed 188 km/h*
Fuel consumption 4,0 L/100 km*
Emissions 105 g/km*
Price to be confirmed
*all manufacturer claimed figures
