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See the city in a different light
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Trend-setting 2008 is Peugeot’s first compact urban crossover
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Fresh, youthful styling emphasises a contemporary lifestyle
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Roomy, versatile interior focussed on comfort and class
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Dynamic, robust character ensures engaging driving experience
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Supported by five-year/60 000 km Premium Plan
The arrival of Peugeot’s 2008 compact urban crossover on South African soil marks the French marque’s entry into one of the new car market’s fastest growing segments.
Based on the same platform as the highly successful 208 compact hatchback, and reflecting a further, refined interpretation of the latest Peugeot design language, the 2008 combines the wieldy dimensions and nippy character of the 208 with the space, versatility and lifestyle appeal of a compact crossover.
Short overhangs, a streamlined shape, smooth surfaces and generous glass areas all combine to create an attractive, even athletic vehicle with contained dimensions that belie the interior roominess and practicality on offer.
Initially offered in comprehensive Allure specification only, and powered by a zesty, efficient 1,6-litre engine, the 2008 retains the dynamic character that has already made its 208 hatchback a firm favourite among subcompact hatchback buyers.
That’s hardly surprising, considering the two cars share the same platform, which combines superior torsional rigidity with the refinement and response of an independent front suspension, and a fine-tuned, space-saving torsion beam axle.
Drive is to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox, which is the only transmission on offer at launch. Peugeot’s Grip Control system, which optimises the 2008’s traction control settings for a variety of conditions, is standard.
A raised ride height further adds to the versatility of the 2008, allowing it to confidently cope with anything from smooth highways and urban routes to indifferent country roads and even gravel, while retaining the platform’s inherent agility and response.
Performance is zippy, thanks to the engine’s lively character. Equipped with four valves per cylinder featuring ‘intelligent’ variable valve timing, the fuel-injected 1,6-litre unit has a maximum output of 88 kW at 6 000 r/min, linked to a torque peak of 160 Nm at 4 250 r/min.
An aerodynamic shape and a kerb mass of just 1 080 kg also contribute to a
0-100 km/h acceleration time of 9,5ß sec, while the top speed is 196 km/h. The 2008’s dynamic capabilities are combined with equally impressive economy: the crossover sips fuel at a rate of just 5,9 litres/100 km in the combined cycle, with associated exhaust emissions of 135 g/km.
Those already familiar with the 208 will feel instantly at home in the cockpit, which reiterates Peugeot’s uniquely intuitive ergonomic approach. A smaller steering wheel highlights the crisp road manners of the 2008, while the instrumentation is arranged to optimise the interface between car and driver.
A generously dimensioned, full-colour touchscreen display is a further ergonomic boon, allowing intuitive access to the extensive infotainment offering, which includes integrated satellite navigation, Bluetooth-powered telephony and audio streaming, USB and auxiliary audio inputs, a trip computer, and an FM/AM receiver with multiple loudspeakers.
Given its compact form factor, the 2008’s roomy interior will come as a surprise. Rear accommodation is spacious, while the wide-opening tailgate provides convenient access to a generous 360 litre boot.
Even more impressive is the way the split rear bench seat folds away completely, leaving a flat-floored cargo area that easily accommodates large, unwieldy objects. From mountain bikes to hiking gear, the 2008 matches its owners’ lifestyle expectations to a tee.
For all its practicality and versatility, the 2008 continues Peugeot’s resolute march into more upmarket territory, thanks to smart finishes and materials, and a pervasive aura of quality. The Allure trim and equipment levels are comprehensive, with a mix of genuine leather and comfortable cloth ensuring both comfort and visual appeal.
Fine detailing includes exquisitely executed metallic accents, ergonomically designed switchgear with a tactile appeal, and subtle ambient illumination to enhance an overall feeling of well-being.
As its customers have come to expect, the new Peugeot 2008 also counts top-class safety among its many attributes. In passive terms, the safety measures include front, side and curtain airbags, while active measures include latest-generation electronic stability control, as well as ABS brakes with emergency braking assistance and brake force distribution.
“The new 2008 is a key addition to the Peugeot passenger car line-up in South Africa,” says Francis Harnie, managing director of Peugeot SA. “It extends our brand’s reach into the fast-growing compact crossover segment, while introducing this segment to the crossover values already established by our larger 3008.
“The 2008 also represents Peugeot’s commitment to a new generation of cars that combine efficiency and a greener environmental footprint with an engaging driving experience – attributes already ably demonstrated by our 208 hatchback.”
Harnie says the 2008 proves that compact cars can be versatile, spacious and comfortable, while offering a strong value proposition.
“The overriding trend in the new vehicle market overwhelmingly favours a smaller form factor, greater affordability and enhanced economy, but without compromising on comfort or safety. The Peugeot 2008 meets and even exceeds all these expectations, while retaining the élan and design flair our products have become known for.
“The value proposition is further enhanced by the Peugeot Premium Plan, which links a three-year/100 000 km warranty to a five-year/60 000 km maintenance plan, as well as by Peugeot’s unwavering commitment to customer service and satisfaction,” Harnie concluded.
PRICING
The new Peugeot 2008 will go on sale in South Africa in May 2014. Initially, the 2008 1.6 Allure will be the only model on offer, while additional derivatives are being considered for release at a later stage.
