Over the years, Peugeot has shown remarkable progress in the UAE with the introduction of feature rich models. However, it was always sidelined and was not a popular brand to be spotted on the roads. Things have transformed since then with the French marque introducing stunning models such as the 508, 5008 and the 3008. Now, it is hinting big with the international launch of its subcompact crossover, the 2008.
EXTERIOR
One look at it, and that’s all you need to say ‘WOW!’ The 2020 iteration of the 2008 is no longer as understated as its previous generation and looks gorgeous. The design is in line with other contemporary Peugeot models and has aggressive headlamps and a bold grille.
A set of 3 DRLs found in the headlamps followed by a strip of LED on the front end gives it a solid charm. The whole of the front has several incongruent creases and I particularly admire the minimal chrome treatment on the bumper. The black decoration on the pillars, roof and the wing mirrors is also worth mentioning.
The side is particularly compact and might arouse the sensation of a high-riding hatchback. Apart from that, you get to witness the visual treat of simplicity with this 2008 and the character lines that run along the length of the doors.
The rear of the car looks minimalistic with the sporty tail lamps and black finishing lending a backdrop to the prominent insignia. The car measures 4300 mm, 1986mm and 1549 mm in length, width and height, respectively. It bears a fairly long wheelbase of 2649 mm.
INTERIOR
Peugeot has tremendously upped its game with the futuristic design of the dashboard. It looks like an aircraft cockpit and something tells me that isn’t by accident. The small, flat-bottomed steering wheel (a trademark of the brand) is likely to make one feel like they are sat in a racecar, with the full digital instrument cluster changing color to demark different drive modes and adding to the sensation of it all.
A few features that we could expect cars to be fitted with when launched in the UAE are automated parking assist, lane keeping assist, auto emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, Apple Car Play and Android Auto. If we’re lucky, we might also receive the MyPeugeot smartphone app that allows drivers to remotely check their car’s battery charge, pre-set the air con, and the ambient lighting too.
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
As per international markets, we can expect the Peugeot 2008 to make its way to the UAE with a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine that pushes out 155 hp and 240 Nm of torque. With power being directed through an 8-speed automatic gearbox, this should prove enough for most city drives. The more interesting option, however, is the all-electric powertrain that flaunts an impressive 136 hp and a range of approximately 290 kilometers. While it’s uncertain what engine and powertrain options will arrive to the UAE, we’re eagerly awaiting the arrival of the all-new 2008.
VERDICT
The new 2008 features a fascinatingly modern design, a futuristic interior and has greatly improved its functionality with the incorporation of the latest features. The 2008 has improved in leaps and bounds, and if priced and marketed well, it would make the proposition more interesting and increase the brand’s reputation too.
