Peugeot 2008 SUV boasts new flagship GT Line
Four years after Peugeot launched its 2008 compact crossover, the new 2008 SUV has emerged as a major success story, with global sales for the period exceeding the 760000 mark.
“The arrival of this thoroughly revised Peugeot 2008 SUV range marks an important step forward for the model in an increasingly competitive segment,” said Francis Harnie, Managing Director of Peugeot South Africa.
“The new 2008 SUV ’s global success is already well established, and the upgrades, which include a more purposeful styling package, enhanced interiors and a choice of fuel- efficient, responsive drivetrains, should further extend our small SUV’s popularity.”
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Model range
Peugeot has introduced the sporty GT Line trim level to augment the Active and Allure packages. The 2008 SUV GT Line becomes the new flagship of the range.
The 2017 Peugeot 2008 SUV range consists of four models, spanning two engine choices, two transmission choices and three trim levels. The highly-specced Active model provides the entry point to the refreshed 2008 SUV range, and is offered in conjunction with Peugeot’s efficient and responsive 1,6-litre HDI turbo-diesel engine, coupled to a five- speed manual gearbox.
The two Allure models occupy the 2008 SUV range’s middle ground. The first links the Active’s turbo diesel engine and manual gearbox to the more comprehensive standard equipment list and elegant execution associated with the Allure package. The second Allure model introduces the second drivetrain offered in the 2008 SUV line-up: an advanced PureTech 1,2-litre turbo petrol engine, coupled with a new six-speed automatic gearbox. The high specification level of the Allure package is identical across both models.
Assuming the flagship role, and introducing the GT Line trim level to the 2008 SUV for the first time, the 2008 GT Line boasts a sporty, crimson-themed execution inside and out, and an even more extensive list of key features, to Peugeot’s advanced PureTech turbo petrol engine and six-speed auto gearbox. The technical specification is identical to that of the Allure 1.2 PureTech Auto version.
Design
A bolder, more upright grille with an intricate, multifaceted grid design and a prominent Peugeot Lion emblem creates a resolute and contemporary impression, flanked on either side by the sleek, elongated shape of the black and chrome-masked headlights.
The raised bonnet is also new, while the front and rear bumpers, sill protectors and wheel arch surrounds are finished in a contrasting solid black. Steel scuff plates front and rear further entrench an impression of rugged versatility.
The new LED taillights allow a three-dimensional expression of Peugeot’s trademark ‘claw-shaped’ light signature.
A raised ride height offers 165 mm of ground clearance, and emphasises the 2008 SUV’s proud stance. As before, the large tailgate opens wide and high to create a generous loading aperture with a low, 60 cm sill for easy access to the cargo area.
Interior
Attractive cloth upholstery is standard on the Active model, while the Allure and GT Line variants get half-leather upholstery with a contemporary, high-tech design.
Common to all is Peugeot’s latest iteration of the i-Cockpit concept, an innovative interior arrangement that combines a small, gripping steering wheel with a clearly legible instrument set and an u
The 7’’ touch screen (18 cm) is located directly above the centre stack, and offers intuitive access to the Peugeot’s infotainment system. Accessible via the menu-driven graphical user interface are the FM/AM radio, and audio playback from source devices linked to the system either via auxiliary input, the USB port, or by utilising wireless Bluetooth streaming. Integrated Bluetooth-based hands-free telephony is also accessible from the screen.
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Standard equipment is comprehensive across all four models, with the likes of remote central locking, electrically operated windows and mirrors, air-conditioning (full climate control on Allure and GT Line versions), rear park distance control, and hill start assistance all included.
The spacious interior is augmented by a generous 410 litre luggage compartment, which can be extended to 1 400 litres by folding the split rear bench seat flat.
Safety and Security
The latest Peugeot 2008 SUV offers a very high level of safety and security features. The active systems include latest-generation ABS anti-lock brake control with electronic brake assist (EBA), as well as electronic stability programme (ESP).
The new 2008 SUV is equipped with six airbags (dual front, side and curtain airbags), as well as head restraints for all five seating positions, and inertia reel seatbelts. IsoFix tethers allow approved child seats to be safely secured.
The central locking system incorporates automatic door locking on pull-off, while electric child locks for the rear doors further improve occupant safety. Braking hard will automatically trigger the hazard flashers, too.
Drivetrain
The new Peugeot 2008 SUV range consists of four models, utilising a choice of two drivetrains and spanning three trim levels. The drivetrains offer a choice of a 1,6-litre HDi turbodiesel engine, and PureTech1,2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol unit.
The HDi four-cylinder turbodiesel has a maximum output of 68 kW at 4 000 r/min, linked to a 230 Nm torque peak, reached at just 1 750 r/min. The HDi engine is offered in the entry-level 2008 Active model, as well as the full-featured Allure version, and is offered in conjunction with a five-speed manual gearbox only. Drive is to the front wheels.
The 2008 SUV range also offers two petrol models utilising the advanced and efficient PureTech 1,2-litre turbo unit. The three-cylinder engine is credited with 81 kW of maximum output at 5 500 r/min, together with 205 Nm of maximum torque, already on song at just 1 500 r/min.
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This advanced petrol engine is offered in conjunction with a new and highly efficient six- speed automatic gearbox only, which contributes to its impressive fuel efficiency.
The two 2008 SUV turbodiesel 1.6 HDi manual models accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 11,5 sec, and achieve a top speed of 181 km/h. Combined-cycle fuel consumption is an impressive 4,0 litres/100 km, linked to CO2 emissions of only 103 g/km, which is below the emissions tax threshold.
The two PureTech turbo petrol models post a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 10,1 sec, and are credited with a 188 km/h top speed. Here, the rated combined-cycle fuel consumption figure comes to 5,4 litres/100 km, while the CO2 emissions rating of 121 g/km is only marginally above the emissions tax threshold.
Chassis and Suspension
A 165 mm ride height allows the 2008 SUV to cope with a variety of terrain. The entry-level Active model is fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, while the other three derivatives ride on 17-inch alloys. Special M+S all-terrain tyres ensure added versatility over a broader range of terrain. A compact 10,4 m turning circle adds to the 2008 SUV’s overall agility and ease of use.
Pricing and Warranty
- 2008 SUV Active 1.6 HDI Manual R274 900
- 2008 SUV Allure 1.6 HDi Manual R299 900
- 2008 SUV Allure 1.2 PureTech Automatic R324 900
- 2008 SUV GT Line 1.2 PureTech Automatic R349 900
The price includes a three-year/100 000 km warranty, a three-year/45 000 km service plan, a three-year paint warranty, roadside assistance, mobility and a 12-year anti- perforation warranty. Services are scheduled at 15 000 km intervals.
The new 2008 SUV model range will be launched to the public on Friday, 17 March 2017.