The Peugeot 2008 has morphed into a more sophisticated crossover that’s dripping with great design.

When it comes to compact crossovers the usual recipe for creation involves taking an existing small hatchback, jacking it up on taller suspension, add som rugged looking bumpers, and hey presto you’ve got a compact crossover. 

That’s what Peugeot did with the first generation 2008 and to be fair that model went on to achieve substantial success despite it not exactly being what you’d call a looker. It had features like a smaller-than-average steering wheel and high-set instrument dials as part of the ‘iCockpit’ arrangement, while a GripControl system made up for the lack of an all-wheel-drive model. It all made for a good package even though it wasn’t something you’d necessarily lust after.

But with the arrival of this second-generation Peugeot 2008 things couldn’t seem more different. There are some similarities with the current 208 hatchback — itself being one of the sexiest cars in that segment — and it’s a design-led creation that oozes kerbside appeal. 

Gone is the curvy design in favour of a look that’s far more chic. From the 3D-effect upright front grille and sabre-tooth tiger-like implementation of the daytime running light, there’s no mistaking what this car is when you see it. Equally appealing are the sharp lines along the Peugeot’s flanks that look as if its bulging wheel arches have been sliced off with a scalpel. For a compact crossover, the 2008 makes a big statement visually, especially in its range-topping GT version. Choice is one of the key ingredients in this Peugeot 2008’s appeal as along with six different specification grades, buyers can pick between diesel, petrol or fully electric models thanks to its versatile CMP platform that underpins it. 

Peugeot’s style offensive continues through to the inside with all models other than entry-level Active featuring a configurable digital instrument display with a clever 3D effect appearance. A 7-inch central touchscreen is angled slightly towards the driver, and from Allure Premium upwards this increases in size to a 10-inch unit. You get Apple Carplay and Android Auto with either version, and after using the larger version, I can say it’s right up there with the best of them with regard to the slickness of operation. The rest of the interior looks smart with some versions getting a faux matt carbon fibre effect, which normally I’d consider terrible, however, it works well in this instance. Ambient lighting strips inside add a further layer of sophistication to the 2008’s cabin. 

Plenty of adjustability means finding a comfortable driving position is easy, and you do get a slightly elevated driving position, which is one of the big draws for many seeking out a crossover. Considering that it’s a smaller car than its big brother, the Peugeot 3008, the design and layout of the interior makes it feel roomier. Numerous storage areas throughout the cabin mean there is plenty of places to put your phone, bag and drinks bottle or cup. A stretch in wheelbase of over 110mm results in more legroom for those sitting in the rear too. 

The boot measures in at 434 litres, which is 10 litres larger than the previous 2008. Its opening is a practical shape, while a separate lower section accessible by lifting the boot floor is useful for stowing away more things. When you need load bulkier items the rear seats fold forward increasing overall capacity to 1,467 litres. 

You can choose from three different versions of the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Power output starts at 99bhp and goes up to 152bhp, but it’s the mid-range 129bhp version I’m driving here. Being a three-cylinder engine means it packs a decent punch, and with 230Nm of torque it pulls well even as the speed increases. You can have it with a six-speed manual transmission, but the eight-speed auto in this car is all the sweeter. It’s smooth in how it shifts gears and reacts quickly when you put the foot down. You’d be forgiven for thinking a 1.2-litre engine isn’t going to be sufficient in a car of this size yet if anything I suspect most people would think that it’s a larger engine due to how it performs. 

It doesn’t take long to get used to the small steering wheel; if anything it adds to the 2008’s nimble behaviour. This crossover is enjoyable to drive, and even in the face of increasingly stiff competition from the likes of the Nissan Juke and Volkswagen T-Cross, the Peugeot comfortably holds its own. Its combination of the raised driving position and a well-sorted suspension setup results in a good blend of comfort and refinement. Although the engine has a more characterful thrum that is typical of three-cylinder engines, it isn’t overly loud or brash, and you only notice it under particularly heavy acceleration. Thanks to the eight-speed automatic transmission, the engine settles down at higher motorway cruising speeds. The automatic does use more fuel than the six-speed manual, though only slightly. If you’re chasing better fuel economy, it’s worth looking towards the 1.5-litre diesel as it performs far better in that regard. 

These days it isn’t easy to choose one standout model in the compact crossover segment such is the quality and variety of models available. The distinctive look of the Peugeot 2008 does give it an edge, and its top-notch interior leaves many lagging well behind. But it’s the way it drives and that punchy 1.2-litre petrol engine that confirms that this car isn’t merely all show. Also worth noting is the variety of specification grades available and the level of standard equipment in each of those. This Peugeot 2008 is a massive improvement over its predecessor and is a car that deserves to be on your shopping list. 

Model: Peugeot 2008 GT Line

Price: £27,730 

Engine: 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol

Power: 129bhp

Torque: 230Nm

0-62mph: 9.1 seconds

Max speed: 123mph

MPG: 47.1 (combined)

CO2: 137-152g/km

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