Peugeot 2008 Review: Why This Small SUV Might Be the Sweet Spot in 2026
19.01.2026 - 08:44:50
Rush hour, tight parking garages, endless fuel receipts — modern driving can feel like a daily compromise. You want space without bulk, comfort without killing your budget, and tech that works without needing a degree to operate it. And on top of that, you want a car that doesn't look like every other gray crossover on the road.
That's where the Peugeot 2008 comes in. This compact SUV is Peugeot's answer to drivers who crave a stylish, city-friendly car with grown-up comfort, real practicality, and the option to go fully electric.
The Solution: A Small SUV That Doesn't Feel Like a Compromise
The Peugeot 2008 is a B-segment SUV that aims to sit right in the sweet spot: bigger and more versatile than a small hatchback, but far easier to live with than a full-size SUV. Competing with the likes of the Volkswagen T-Cross, Renault Captur, Hyundai Kona, and Ford Puma, it leans heavily on design, refinement, and technology to stand out.
On the official Peugeot 2008 page, Peugeot highlights sharp exterior styling with its signature claw-like LED light design (on many trims), multiple powertrain options (including the all-electric e-2008 in several markets), and a tech-heavy interior built around the Peugeot i-Cockpit with its compact steering wheel and digital instrument cluster.
Across recent reviews and owner feedback on forums and Reddit, the 2008 earns consistent praise for its design, comfort, and surprisingly grown-up feel for such a compact SUV. Many buyers say they chose it because they were tired of appliances-on-wheels and wanted something that actually feels a bit special without jumping into luxury-brand pricing.
Why this specific model?
There are plenty of small crossovers fighting for your attention, so why should the Peugeot 2008 be on your shortlist?
1. Design that actually turns heads
The 2008 leans into Peugeot's bold design language: a tall, confident stance, sculpted sides, a distinctive grille, and those striking vertical daytime running lights on many trims. Reviewers consistently mention that it looks more upmarket than many rivals, with an interior that feels closer to premium than budget. Owners often say it feels like they “traded up a class” without the matching price tag.
2. Powertrain choice, including full electric in many markets
Depending on your region, the 2008 is available with efficient petrol engines and, in many markets, as the fully electric Peugeot e-2008. Peugeot's official site outlines options including internal combustion engine versions and the electric model; this lets you match your use case: city commuting with the option for electric, or conventional engines if charging isn't convenient where you live.
3. The Peugeot i-Cockpit experience
Inside, the 2008 uses Peugeot's i-Cockpit layout: a small, low-set steering wheel with a raised digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen. Many drivers find this layout more engaging and more comfortable, especially in city driving, because you don't have to look as far down to see your speed or navigation.
On higher trims and recent facelifts, you can get a fully digital instrument cluster, an upgraded central infotainment screen, and modern connectivity options like smartphone mirroring (check your local specification for exact features and screen sizes, as these vary by market and trim). The takeaway: this doesn't feel like an economy car cabin.
4. Real-world practicality
Owners frequently highlight the surprising roominess of the Peugeot 2008 for its footprint. You get a higher driving position, reasonable rear legroom for a compact SUV, and a practical trunk that can handle shopping, strollers, or luggage for a weekend away. Rear seats fold to extend cargo space, making it a flexible daily driver.
5. Comfort-focused driving, not boy-racer stiffness
User feedback and road tests point out that the 2008 leans toward comfort rather than aggressive sportiness. It soaks up city bumps well for its class, handles long trips without drama, and remains easy to maneuver in narrow streets and parking lots. If you want something nimble but not harsh, this balance is a strong selling point.
At a Glance: The Facts
Exact specifications depend on market and trim, but these core characteristics define the Peugeot 2008 experience. Always confirm final details on the official Peugeot site for your region.
| Feature | User Benefit |
|---|---|
| Compact SUV dimensions | Easy to park and maneuver in the city while still offering higher driving position and extra space over a hatchback. |
| Available electric and combustion versions (market dependent) | Choose between traditional fuel or the all-electric e-2008 depending on your charging access and driving profile. |
| Peugeot i-Cockpit with compact steering wheel | More engaging driving position, raised instruments, and less eye movement from road to dials for a modern, cockpit-like feel. |
| Digital instrument cluster on higher trims | Clear, configurable driving information directly in your line of sight, adding a more premium, high-tech feel. |
| Central touchscreen infotainment system | Control navigation, media, and connectivity from a single interface, reducing button clutter and modernizing the cabin. |
| Raised ride height and SUV stance | Better visibility in traffic, easier access in and out of the car, and a more confident road presence. |
| Foldable rear seats and practical trunk | Flexible space for shopping, gear, and luggage, making it easier to juggle daily life and weekend adventures. |
What Users Are Saying
Community sentiment across owner forums and Reddit discussions about the Peugeot 2008 is broadly positive, especially regarding comfort, styling, and value for money. Drivers often describe it as a car that feels more upmarket than its price suggests.
Common praise:
- Design inside and out: Many owners say the 2008 looks more distinctive than competitors, and the interior feels stylish and modern rather than basic.
- Comfort and refinement: Ride quality and cabin quietness are frequently highlighted as strong points for a small SUV.
- Practicality for its size: People appreciate the usable trunk space and family-friendly rear seats, especially for urban families and couples.
- Electric option (where available): e-2008 drivers often praise the smooth, quiet drive and say the range works well for daily commuting.
Recurring criticisms:
- Infotainment responsiveness and ergonomics: Some users report the touchscreen can be slower than they'd like and find the learning curve steeper than in more traditional layouts.
- Steering wheel and instrument position: The i-Cockpit layout doesn't suit everyone; a few drivers find it tricky to get a perfect driving position where the wheel doesn't obscure the dials.
- Price at the top end: In some markets, fully loaded trims can come close to larger or more powerful competitors, leading some shoppers to cross-shop bigger vehicles.
Overall, owners who understand and like Peugeot's distinctive driving position and styling tend to be very happy with their choice, especially if they prioritize comfort and looks over razor-sharp handling.
Alternatives vs. Peugeot 2008
The small SUV segment is crowded, so how does the Peugeot 2008 stack up against key rivals?
- Volkswagen T-Cross / Taigo: VW rivals usually offer very logical cabins and straightforward controls. They're strong on usability but tend to look and feel more conservative than the 2008. If you want flair and a more premium-feeling interior, the Peugeot has the edge; if you prioritize conservative ergonomics, VW may suit you better.
- Renault Captur: Another French contender with a focus on comfort. The Captur offers good practicality and customization, but many reviewers say the 2008 feels a bit more upscale inside and more visually striking outside.
- Hyundai Kona: The Kona offers a wide range of powertrains (including hybrid and electric in many markets) and a reputation for strong value and warranty coverage. The Peugeot counters with more distinctive design and a more cocoon-like cabin feel.
- Ford Puma: Often praised for its engaging handling and clever trunk storage solutions, the Puma is a driver's choice in this class. If you care more about comfort, design, and electric options, the 2008 might be a better fit; if you want sporty driving, the Puma is hard to ignore.
Where the Peugeot 2008 really shines is in the intersection of design, comfort, and perceived quality. It doesn't necessarily win every spec-sheet battle, but as an overall experience, it feels cohesive and considered.
Final Verdict
The Peugeot 2008 is for you if you're done settling for anonymous, utilitarian crossovers. It delivers a distinctive design, an interior that feels a segment above its class, and the option to go electric in many markets — all wrapped in a package that still fits city life.
No car is perfect. The i-Cockpit layout won't satisfy everyone, and the most generously equipped trims can get pricey. But if you sit in the driver's seat, adjust the compact steering wheel, and find that it clicks for you, the 2008 offers a uniquely satisfying blend of style, comfort, and practicality.
Backed by Stellantis N.V. (ISIN: NL00150001Q9), Peugeot's compact SUV is part of a global portfolio of brands, which means you're buying into a major automotive group with established engineering and support networks.
If you're shopping in the small SUV segment, the Peugeot 2008 deserves a serious test drive. For many drivers, it won't just be another sensible choice — it will feel like the first time a practical car genuinely sparks a bit of emotion.
