Peugeot breathes new life into the 2008 with its mid-cycle update

Peugeot stormed onto the scene with a blaze when they unveiled the second-generation 2008 in 2019. Over here in the Philippines, the 2008 is getting quite a bit of attention from the masses despite its European roots thanks to its unique aesthetics, commodious interior, and impressive agility on the road. Meanwhile, in Europe, the 2008 carved its own place in the market, being a constant best-seller in the compact SUV market, enough evidence to prove that Peugeot hit the mark with the 2008. 

In 2023, the Peugeot 2008 has already been on the market for four years so of course, Peugeot is going to take action to keep their crossover in fighting form. To do that, Peugeot has given the 2008 a facelift along with improvements to the in-car entertainment system. The French automaker has also introduced a mild-hybrid engine option to serve as the middle ground between the conventional internal combustion engine-powered 2008 and the fully-electric e-2008 model.

The 2008’s mid-cycle update brings it in line with Peugeot’s recent design styles presented along with the Peugeot 508. The revamped version now features the triple claw-like vertical lights which are incorporated into the bumper's black inserts that have a glossy finish.

Moving to the back, Peugeot has reworked the 2008’s LED taillights, designing them in a way to follow the “three-claw” theme. This time, however, the lights are made up of three horizontal slats. Peugeot’s old lion emblem is gone and in while the emblazoned “PEUGEOT” emblem gets an updated font style.

Inside, Peugeot is staying faithful to the 3D i-Cockpit layout for the 2008. Unlike the exterior, there are no significant alterations inside. What is new is the 10-inch touchscreen head unit, which is now fully geared up for the i-Connect Advanced connectivity system.

In regards to the mild-hybrid 2008 that was launched alongside the facelift, the mild-hybrid 2008 features an all-new powertrain. This new powertrain incorporates a 48-volt hybrid system into the 1.2-liter, three-cylinder PureTech turbo engine, already capable of generating 134 hp and 230 Nm of torque. An additional 28 hp electric motor has been attached to the six-speed dual-clutch transmission, giving it an extra boost in performance. According to Peugeot, they plan to introduce the mild hybrid variants to international markets by the year 2024.

Meanwhile, the e-2008 is getting an upgrade to its power and range. The electric SUV has been fitted with a beefier 54 kWh battery and a new electric motor, providing it with more push at 154 hp, along with a considerably extended range. Utilizing the WLTP cycle, the e-2008 can now travel up to 406 km, 61 kilometers more compared to its previous range of 345 km.

In terms of charging, the recharge period from 20% to 80% is estimated at 30 minutes with the use of a 100 kW DC charging port. Using a 7.4 kW wall box charger for AC charging takes roughly 4 hours and 40 minutes. And finally, using a 3.2 kW standard reinforced socket, the e-2008 requires a charging period of 11 hours and 10 minutes to recharge its battery.

The good news doesn’t stop there though, as Peugeot is also equipping the 2008 with more safety features. These new features include new, high-definition front and rear parking cameras, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, active lane departure warning, lane correction, and blind spot monitoring.

With Peugeot Philippines set on cutting themselves a nice slice of the EV market, the refreshed 2008 and its hybrid counterparts may be on the horizon. As for how long that will be, we don’t know just yet.