Our Rating
4/5
Pros
Cons
Introduction
Peugeot has become one of the key players when it comes to more affordable and accessible electric cars. There’s the best-selling electric e-208 supermini, and above that, the e-2008 crossover.
Sold alongside petrol models, Peugeot has sold 75,000 of these compact electric SUVs since its introduction in 2019, helped by its stylish design and premium-feeling interior.
Peugeot is now introducing a refreshed version of the e-2008, which aims to address two of its previous weaknesses – first, its average electric range, and second, its touchscreen. But with this model now facing more rivals than ever, such as the Jeep Avenger and new Kia Niro EV, is it able to remain competitive?
Performance
Probably the main update on this new e-2008 is an upgraded powertrain – the same as we’ve already seen in fellow Stellantis siblings like the DS 3 E-Tense and Jeep Avenger.
The battery pack increases in size from 50kWh to 54kWh, and though this might not sound a lot, other efficiency improvements mean the range is boosted from 214 miles to 251 miles. At the same time, a more powerful electric motor has been fitted, increasing from it 134bhp to 154bhp.
That said, performance remains almost identical, with the e-2008 able to accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 93mph.
In terms of charging, the e-2008 can accept speeds of up to 100kW, allowing a 10 to 80 per cent charge to take place in around half an hour.
Ride and handling
Behind the wheel, the e-2008 is a car that excels when it comes to comfort. In fact, it’s one of the best-riding cars in its class, with a fairly soft suspension setup leading to great pliancy, even on rougher roads.
The performance is perfectly adequate, though it’s not as brisk as rivals like the Kia Niro EV, and generally it drives very similarly to its predecessor. It’s no performance crossover, but if you’re looking for a comfortable, laid-back driving experience, this Peugeot makes a lot of sense.
Interior
Peugeot’s interiors have really moved upmarket in recent years, and the e-2008 is a perfect example of this. The material quality is superb throughout, and arguably feels better than its pricier DS 3 sibling.
It’s a stylish design, too, with its digital i-Cockpit, large touchscreen ( a big improvement compared to its predecessor) and small steering wheel giving it a more interesting look and feel than many of its rivals.
Though the e-2008 is a relatively compact car, there’s still a decent amount of rear seat space and a useful 405-litre boot.
Equipment
Peugeot offers four different trims on the e-2008, with the range starting with the entry-level Active. It still comes with plenty of kit, however, such as 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a 10-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring and rear parking sensors.
The Allure trim adds larger 17-inch alloy wheels, along with a digital instrument cluster and front sensors. After this comes the GT, which gets a black roof, full LED headlights, a reversing camera and keyless entry.
Peugeot is also offering a First Edition, which gets Alcantara upholstery, an electric and massaging driver’s seat and heated seats.
Cost
The one trouble with the e-2008 is that it’s by no means cheap. Prices kick off from £36,350, but we reckon the Allure model is the pick of the bunch, starting from £38,350.
Prices rise to more than £40,000 for the GT and First Edition, but optional extras can easily add several thousand more to that. At that price, the e-2008 just looks a bit expensive.
Verdict
Tweaks to the Peugeot e-2008 have only made this an even more desirable crossover. Now boasting a much-improved electric range, it continues to have a great interior and a stylish and distinctive design.
Just be careful of the price, as it can start to get quite expensive as it approaches the cost of cars from the class above.
