ON THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS PREVIEWS THE NEW PEUGEOT 2008

Peugeot has launched a new version of their B segment SUV, the 2008, the entry model to their SUV range and orders will be opening this summer. The 2008 appeared on the scene at the end of 2019 and has been a top seller in its class, consistently third.

So what does the new model offer? An updated, more assertive design, an enhanced i-Cockpit and a new electric powertrain for the new e-2008 that offers up to 405km (252m) of range. There will be a choice of three trim levels Active, Allure and GT From next year, a range of electric, hybrid and petrol powertrains, enabling each customer to choose the version that best suits their needs. From launch, the new fully-electric e-2008 benefits from a larger 54kWh battery and a new electric motor, with maximum power increasing by 18% to 156bhp. Good news, range also increases from 334km (214m) Two types of onboard chargers are available on the new e-2008 as standard, a single-phase 7.4kW charger and, as an option, a three-phase 11kW charger. The new model can be recharged from 0-80% in 30 minutes from a 100kW rapid charger, or 7 hours 30 minutes from a 7.4kW charger.

Also next year, there will be a new 48V hybrid powertrain, which consists of a new-generation 136bhp 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine, coupled with a new six-speed dual-clutch electrified gearbox that includes an electric motor. The battery recharges while driving; this technology offers extra torque at low engine speeds and up to 15% lower fuel consumption. In city driving, the new model equipped with this system can operate more than 50% of the time in electric mode. The company will continue to offer a choice of advanced 1.2 litre three-cylinder petrol engines. The PureTech 100 is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox featuring a new gearshift knob for improved ergonomics, while the PureTech 130 can be combined with either the EAT8 eight-speed automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual gearbox. The innovative i-Cockpit has been updated with a new design for the 10 inch digital instrument cluster, which features a 3D display on GT versions. The colour of the display, the order and the layout of the information can be fully adjusted to suit the driver’s preferences. All models now come with a 10 inch central touchscreen as standard. Under the central screen, the piano keys allow quick access to key functions. One feature Like about Peugeot models is their compact steering and on the new 2008 displays the new company logo in its centre and houses controls for the infotainment system, as well as voice control. On GT models, steering wheels also feature a new GT badge on the lower part of its rim.

From Allure trims up, there is  Peugeot’s i-Connect infotainment system, which offers full connectivity through wireless phone mirroring (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto). The system can be controlled via the central 10 inch high-definition touchscreen or via natural voice recognition, activated by saying “ok Peugeot”, similar to “hey Mercedes”. i-Connect Advanced is available as an option across the range, which adds a high-performance TomTom connected navigation system with over-the-air updates. Relaxed safer driving and the new 2008 comes with a range of driver assistance features, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Automatic Emergency Braking, Extended Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Alert and Blind Spot Monitoring. For enhanced traction, Advanced Grip Control, together with all-season tyres, is also offered, which provides access to three additional driving modes: Sand, Mud and Snow.

Ian Lynas