Peugeot’s compact electric SUV picks up a substantial boost in range and upgraded tech
Verdict
Peugeot has given its e-2008 small electric SUV a suite of key updates, improving the range and interior technology. As an early offering in the class there was always room for improvement, and Peugeot has sensibly focused on key elements that benefit customers creating a solid, if still quite expensive, package.
As one of the pioneers of mass market EVs, Peugeot has already made significant headway in building an association in the minds of buyers between electric power and its affordable, stylish model range. A key car in establishing that connection has long been the e-2008, a compact SUV that’s now been upgraded with focused changes in areas that customers will appreciate.
This starts with the upgraded battery pack, which has been expanded from 50kWh to 54kWh. That extra capacity and some improved efficiencies within the battery’s technical makeup yield an all-important increase in range, which now sits at 251 miles on the WLTP cycle – an improvement of around 38 miles. As well as the extra range, the front-mounted e-motor is also marginally more powerful than before with 154bhp, giving the little EV a 0-62mph time of 9.1 seconds.
On the road, performance feels just about adequate in the Normal drive mode, although flicking up to Sport does helpfully increase the amount of grunt that’s accessible through a more sensitive throttle. The basics are sound though, with a linear progression to both the throttle and brakes, and a reasonably natural feel when switching between regenerative and friction braking. Like before, there’s a single ‘B’ mode for the regenerative braking which works well, although it doesn’t quite deliver one-pedal driving, if you’re into that sort of thing.
Peugeot has paid attention to the ride quality and, even on the larger 18-inch wheels of our GT test car, the e-2008 offers good comfort levels. There is an overwhelming sense of weight, though, as while it remains composed, you can feel the e-2008 lean into its suspension even at relatively low speeds. Really challenging undulations at higher speeds tend to reveal this car’s limits, which are still inherently defined by the fact that it’s based on a B-segment supermini.
On-road refinement is good, if not great, but this is always something highlighted by EVs as there’s no drone from a combustion engine to drown out the low frequency wind or road noise.
Yet what customers will probably care more about is how substantial this car feels from behind the tiny steering wheel. Like all modern Peugeots, the interior has a mix of colours and materials inside that give it a genuinely plush and sophisticated feel. Compared to something like a Vauxhall Mokka-e, it’s full of complex shapes and high quality fittings, despite the two Stellantis group cars sharing much of the same underlying tech.
Speaking of which, Peugeot has given the main touchscreen interface a much-needed upgrade, with all models featuring a 10-inch system with updated software. It’s not the most intuitive to use, but with some time to adapt it’s not the deterrent some rival systems can be. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also up the usability stakes, helped out by the useful combination of wireless charging and plenty of USB points.
There is something to note with the interior, though, as the i-Cockpit layout found in the majority of Peugeots will work for some but not for others. The upgraded digital driver’s display on all models bar the entry-level car does help, as even if the wheel impedes your line of sight it can be reconfigured to avoid blocking any critical information.
Interior space is limited by the constraints of Peugeot needing to offer both electric and combustion powertrain options in the 2008. Rear seat space in this e-2008 is somewhat limited, and the car’s 434-litre boot, with relatively high floor, is only okay considering the exterior dimensions. Compared to similarly-priced rivals from MG or BYD, there’s less luggage space but those rivals really operate in the class above – it’s their price parity that will bring them into consideration alongside the smaller Peugeot.
So rather than being a price and spec-sheet leader, Peugeot is continuing its position as a more distinctive and stylish choice. The e-2008’s aesthetic changes, including those dramatic triple-claw LED running lights, are what Peugeot hopes will attract customers. The car is one of the more striking options in the class, just like its predecessor.
Starting at £36,350, the list price is quite strong, but with finance and PCP deals making up a vast majority of sales it’s the monthlies that will be the main driver of its value proposition. So if it suits your budget and needs, the e-2008 should be on your list, however, this is one of the most hotly-contested segments in the new car market and there’s always a new rival just around the corner.
Model: | Peugeot e-2008 |
Price: | £36,350 |
Powertrain: | 54kWh battery/1x e-motor |
Power/torque: | 154bhp/260Nm |
Transmission: | Single-speed automatic, front-wheel drive |
0-62mph: | 9.1 seconds |
Top speed: | 93mph |
Range: | 251 miles |
Charging: | 100kW (10-80% 30mins) |
On sale: | Now |
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