Review – first impression new Peugeot e-2008

Peugeot e-2008 a success number

The Peugeot 2008 is incredibly important for the French carmaker. Since the market launch of the second generation in 2019, nearly 700,000 units have already been produced. Although most 2008s still feature a combustion engine, the all-electric Peugeot e-2008 has also ensured success. As of 2019, over 75,000 units of that electric version have already been produced. Reason enough, then, to give this version a substantial update so that potential buyers do not lose sight of it.

Cosmetic modifications

Thanks to the cosmetic upgrade, the new Peugeot 2008 stands out better than ever, as does the electric e-2008. The small crossover gets a modified front with substantial grille and, of course, the new Peugeot emblem. On Active versions, the horizontal elements in the grille are finished in gloss black. On Allure and GT versions, the grille has a vertical pattern in the body color.

Front and rear calipers

The three vertical light claws are not to be missed. This distinctive light signature is now incorporated into the gloss black inserts on the bumper. All versions of the new 2008 have this new light signature. In the GT version, the signature of the three claws continues for the first time in the LED headlights with three light modules. This design distinguishes the GT version from the rest of the range. In practice, the GT variant also proves to be one of the most popular versions. The rear of the new 2008 stands out thanks to new lighting and now a full-size Peugeot designation on the tailgate. Peugeot delivers the new 2008 in six body colors, namely Gris Selenium, Gris Artense, Blanc Okenite, Noir Perla Nera, Rouge Elixir and Bleu Vertigo.

Interior Peugeot 2008

Time to get in, because the interior of the Peugeot 2008 also received an upgrade. Remaining is the Peugeot i-Cockpit, featuring a distinctive small steering wheel with a digital instrument cluster above it. All 2008 models come standard with a 10-inch central touchscreen (previously 7-inch on the first two trim levels). On Allure and GT versions, it is a high-definition touchscreen. Below the central screen are sophisticated “piano keys” for the most important functions. In addition, the workmanship has been taken to the next level.

Other updates

Updates to the Peugeot i-Connect infotainment system take place over-the-air. Furthermore, the 2008 now has voice recognition. By saying “okay Peugeot,” you can then give a command to the car. Smartphones also wirelessly pair with the in-car infotainment system for access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is possible to simultaneously pair two phones via Bluetooth. For completeness, the Allure and GT versions have three USB ports (two USB-C in the front and one USB-A in the second row of seats). With the Active trim, the 2008 has one USB-C connector in the front, while the e-2008 also has a USB-C connector and a USB-A connector in the rear. A wireless smartphone charger has also been thought of.

Mood lighting

Is there anything else new? Yes, of course! New front and rear parking assist cameras on the Peugeot 2008 now have a high-definition image. Furthermore, the Frenchman now has ambient lighting. This ambient lighting is connected to the touchscreen, so selecting a particular driving mode extends the atmosphere throughout the interior. All in all, a lot of changes and updates.

Peugeot e-2008: new electric motor and improved battery

Yet the most important adjustment is yet to come. In fact, the all-electric Peugeot e-2008 gets a new electric motor. Maximum power is up 15%, from 100 kW (136 hp) to 115 kW (156 hp), while battery capacity has been increased from 50 kWh to 54 kWh. Thanks to efficiency optimizations, the electric e-2008 has a driving range of up to 406 kilometers. Previously, it was 345 kilometers (WLTP). That increased driving range in particular will be a major reason for many buyers to choose an e-2008 now.

Peugeot e-2008 charging

So what about charging? At a fast charging point, the e-2008 achieves a maximum charging rate of 100 kW, charging the battery from 20 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes. With a 7.4 kW wallbox, that takes about four hours and 40 minutes. Those who choose to charge with a normal outlet (3.2 kW) will have to be patient for a while. In this case, charging takes 11 hours and 10 minutes. Driving assistance systems abound, and you notice this quite a bit while driving. Fortunately, everything can also be turned off on demand.

Mature all-rounder

While driving the new Peugeot e-2008, one thing stands out: it is a very mature and almost perfect all-rounder. Certainly the e-2008 can count itself among the top in the electric B-segment after all the modifications and upgrades. The car has comfortable damping and fine handling. You also feel that the car has some extra power. That just drives just a little bit nicer. Below the line, Peugeot has made significant modifications to the successful e-2008. Those updates are undoubtedly going to help boost sales of this electric crossover. In any case, you are buying a car that has made considerable strides in several areas, with the increased driving range being a noticeable improvement in practice.

What the car should cost? Peugeot kicks off with a so-called First Edition of the electric e-2008. That one will cost a minimum of 45,870 euros. Prices of other versions will be announced by Peugeot at a later date. Want to know more about the “normal” Peugeot 2008? Then check out this article.